Cherry MX Black vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Black and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, both of which are linear switches. The Cherry MX Black is best known for its classic textured smoothness, deep sound profile, and stiff feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a low-pitched, tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver stands out for its short travel distance, lightning-fast actuation, thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and feather-light touch. While the Cherry MX Black offers a familiar and reliable typing experience, the Gateron Smoothie Silver excels in providing a swift and effortless typing experience. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Cherry MX Black and Gateron Smoothie Silver switches both aim to create a unique typing experience through their different sound profiles. The Nylon top housing of the MX Black produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the POM top housing of the Smoothie Silver offers a more muted and pleasing sound. While both materials contribute to a softer typing sound, they each have their own characteristics that make them distinct in terms of sound profile.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Nylon bottom housing of the MX Black and the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch when pressed down. Both materials absorb sound effectively, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The difference lies in the specific qualities of the sound produced, with the Smoothie Silver offering a deeper and more muted sound compared to the MX Black.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in the typing experience. While the Cherry MX Black and Gateron Smoothie Silver may have different housing materials, the end result may still be similar in terms of creating a unique and pleasing typing sound. The impact of each housing material on the sound profile when pressing down and letting go of a key is essential in determining the overall typing experience of the switch.
Weight
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a significantly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch's lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the MX Black switch requires more force to trigger a keystroke, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Additionally, the MX Black switch also has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, while the bottom out force of the Smoothie Silver switch is unknown. The difference in weight between the two switches may cater to different preferences, with the MX Black being better suited for those who prefer a heavier feel, while the Smoothie Silver is ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Smoothie Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the MX Black. In general, a shorter travel distance can result in faster response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying "key feel" for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a smooth linear actuation, so regardless of the travel distance, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of switch feel and operation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Smoothie Silver 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 Silver for $2.60.
The Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 per 10 switches.
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 Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a low-pitched profile with a deep and mellow tone, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch provides a thocky sound that is smooth and light. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, with the MX Black having a bass-heavy sound and the Smoothie Silver delivering a unique thocky tone. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by the keyboard body, keycaps, and typing technique.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Black switch is known for its textured and stiff qualities, providing a noticeable friction when pressed and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver switch lacks specific descriptors for feel, but it is mentioned to offer unparalleled smoothness and a feather-light touch. It can be inferred that the Smoothie Silver switch may offer a smoother and lighter typing experience compared to the MX Black switch.
Overall, the Cherry MX Black and Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Black switch provides a deep, low-pitched sound with a textured and stiff feel, while the Smoothie Silver switch offers a thocky sound and smooth, light touch. Choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches excel in different aspects. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying and reliable typing experience with either switch, ensuring consistent performance and comfort.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Black and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches, you should consider the type of feel and sound you prefer in a switch. If you enjoy a heavier switch with a textured, stiff feel and a deep, low-pitched sound, then the MX Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light, smooth switch with a short travel distance, thocky sound, and a feather-light touch, then the Smoothie Silver could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what feels most comfortable to you.
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