Gateron Smoothie vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Smoothie and the TTC Speed Silver mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences and needs. The Smoothie is renowned for its all-POM construction, offering a thocky sound signature, exceptional smoothness, and a light touch. It is characterized by qualities such as being buttery, low-pitched, and creamy, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a more subdued and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switches are tailored for users who prioritize speed and precision in their typing. With a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance for quick actuation, these switches provide a fast and effortless typing experience. They are described as neutral, mild, and polished in their feel. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie and the TTC Speed Silver, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles. The Smoothie's POM top and bottom housing create a deep and relatively muted sound, while the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Smoothie's POM bottom housing. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a pleasing typing experience with their respective housing materials.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the Smoothie and the Speed Silver also differ. The Smoothie's POM top housing offers a unique sound profile while the Speed Silver's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency. This makes the Speed Silver a more visually appealing option for users who prefer switches with RGB lighting capabilities. However, the smooth and polished appearance of the Smoothie's POM top housing may be preferred by users looking for a sleek and sophisticated design.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the housing materials of the Gateron Smoothie and TTC Speed Silver play a crucial role. The split qualities of the top and bottom housings impact the sound and feel of the switch differently. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Smoothie focusing on a deeper sound profile, and the Speed Silver providing a sharper and crisper sound, making them both viable options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking different sound profiles.
Weight
The Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Smoothie is unknown, while the Speed Silver has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is medium-light. The lighter actuation force of the Smoothie makes it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Speed Silver provides a more substantial typing feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer different levels of force, catering to the preferences of users who prioritize either lighter or heavier typing experiences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it's evident that the Smoothie has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6mm compared to the Speed Silver's 3.4mm. While the difference may seem minimal, it can have an impact on the overall typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may lean towards the Speed Silver with its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker key presses. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on keys may find the Smoothie more satisfying with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Whether opting for the shorter or longer travel distance, both switches offer a tactile experience that can enhance overall typing comfort and efficiency.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound profile, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch delivers a neutral sound with moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and scenarios. Both switches can offer pleasant typing sounds depending on the keyboard and keycap setup, but if you prefer a deeper and more bass-heavy tone, the Smoothie may be the better choice.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Smoothie switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a seamless, effortless, and smooth typing sensation. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch offers a mild and polished feel, with gentle typing experience and reduced friction for smooth key travel. If you appreciate a more refined and polished typing experience, the Speed Silver switch might be the preferred option. Both switches prioritize smoothness in their feel, so you can expect a similar level of comfort and ease when typing on either one.
In conclusion, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Smoothie excels in providing a thocky sound and a buttery typing feel, while the Speed Silver focuses on a neutral sound and a polished typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound depth and typing smoothness, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style. Despite their differences, both switches ensure a pleasant and satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, you'll want to choose the Smoothie if you prioritize a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. The Smoothie offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. On the other hand, you should opt for the Speed Silver if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. The Speed Silver provides a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished typing feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
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