Gateron Smoothie vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Smoothie and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gateron Smoothie, a linear switch, and the Jwick Taro, a tactile switch. The Smoothie is praised for its all-POM construction, delivering a thocky sound profile, exceptional smoothness, and a light touch while still remaining budget-friendly. On the other hand, the Taro offers a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks, all wrapped up in a comfortable color scheme. While the Smoothie is described as 'buttery', 'low-pitched', and 'silky', the Taro is considered 'neutral', 'buttery', and 'stepped'. Each switch has its unique qualities, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Smoothie and Jwick Taro switches both offer unique sound profiles due to their different housing materials. The Smoothie's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Taro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in sound profiles is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate compared to POM, with polycarbonate resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. However, both switches utilize materials that are designed to enhance the overall typing experience, with POM offering a unique sound profile and polycarbonate being ideal for use with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In addition to their top housings, the bottom housings of the Smoothie and Taro switches also play a significant role in the overall sound profile. The Smoothie's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Taro's nylon bottom housing elicits a fuller and rounder sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material further enhances the distinct typing experience offered by each switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch greatly influences the sound profile and overall typing experience. While the Gateron Smoothie and Jwick Taro switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to their different housing materials, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience in their own unique ways. Whether it be the deeper and muted sound of POM in the Smoothie or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Taro, both switches provide users with a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences for users. The Smoothie has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Taro, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Taro has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Smoothie is unknown. This means that the Taro provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, ideal for those who prefer a heavier switch. On the other hand, the Smoothie offers a lighter actuation force, which may be preferred by users who need to type for extended periods without fatigue. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out force, providing options for users based on their typing style and preference for key feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when compared to the traditional 4.0mm travel distance. Gamers looking for quicker response times may prefer the Smoothie with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Taro with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Smoothie is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying tone when pressed. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro offers a neutral sound profile with moderate actuation force requirements, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Smoothie is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. In contrast, the Jwick Taro provides a buttery feel as well, but also incorporates a stepped sensation, giving users a two-stage tactile feedback that is mild and differentiated.
In conclusion, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch excels in providing a thocky sound and a buttery smooth feel, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a cozy typing experience with acute and crisp clacks in terms of sound, and a combination of buttery and stepped tactile sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences and styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Smoothie linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force, a thocky sound signature, and a lightweight touch, then the Smoothie might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a cozy typing experience with snappy tactility, and a neutral sound profile, then the Taro switch could be more suited to your needs. Consider how you like your switches to feel and sound, and choose accordingly. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so make sure to test them out before making your final decision.
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