Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Smoothie, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The MX Speed Silver is lauded for its rapid response, thanks to its linear action and low spring resistance, making it ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed and precision. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie boasts a unique all-POM construction, providing a thocky sound signature, smooth keystrokes, and a lightweight feel. While the MX Speed Silver is known for its textured feel, the Gateron Smoothie offers a buttery and creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and specific 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
30g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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 of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Smoothie both play a significant role in the sound profile of the switches. The MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing is known for creating a deep and full sound, while the Smoothie's POM top housing produces a unique and muted sound. While both materials contribute to a pleasing sound profile, the nylon may result in a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM, which offers a deeper and more muted tone.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches also showcase distinct characteristics. The MX Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing creates a more muted sound overall. This difference in sound profile between the two switches can be attributed to the properties of nylon and POM, with nylon absorbing more sound and POM offering a unique and deep sound.
Overall, the housing materials of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Smoothie impact the overall sound and feel of the switches in different ways. While both switches use classic housing materials known for their sound-absorbing qualities, the nylon in the MX Speed Silver may result in a slightly duller sound compared to the POM in the Smoothie. However, both switches offer a pleasing sound profile that enhances the typing experience, with the bottom and top housings each playing a role in the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is evident that the MX Speed Silver is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 30 grams, while the Smoothie is the heavier option with an actuation force of 40 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but it can be assumed that they may provide a similar experience since the actuation force is the primary factor influencing typing feel. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the MX Speed Silver for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may favor the heavier actuation force of the Smoothie for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Smoothie has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Speed Silver. While the difference is minimal, it may be noticeable to some users, especially those who are sensitive to key travel distances. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Speed Silver, while others who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Smoothie. Both switches offer similar results in terms of functionality, but the slight difference in travel distance may cater to different preferences among users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Smoothie linear switches, both switches are described as producing a thocky and low-pitched sound. The Cherry MX Speed Silver offers a deep and rich sound when pressed, with a low-pitched tone that adds to its overall satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie also provides a thocky sound profile with a low-pitched tone; however, it also introduces a more subdued sound compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver. While both switches offer a similar thocky and low-pitched sound, the Gateron Smoothie provides a more dampened and subtle sound signature, catering to users who prefer a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is noted for its textured action, which adds a unique friction when pressed. This texture may be preferred by some users who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and seamless keystroke sensation. With lubricant applied in the switch or specific materials contributing to its creaminess, the Gateron Smoothie ensures effortless typing with minimal resistance. While the Cherry MX Speed Silver offers a textured feel for those who appreciate feedback during typing, the Gateron Smoothie excels in providing a smooth and buttery typing experience for users seeking a friction-free sensation.
Overall, both the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Gateron Smoothie linear switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Cherry MX Speed Silver emphasizes speed and textured feedback in both sound and feel, the Gateron Smoothie focuses on providing a thocky, low-pitched sound with a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, users can achieve similar results in auditory and tactile satisfaction with either switch, each offering distinct characteristics that enhance the overall keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Speed Silver or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your individual preferences and needs. If you are a gamer looking for lightning-fast response times and full height for maximum speed, then the MX Speed Silver with its linear action and low spring resistance is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers on quality with a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, then the Gateron Smoothie is a great choice. Additionally, if you prefer a more subdued sound and a buttery, creamy, or silky typing experience, the Smoothie may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique features that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider what matters most to you before making your decision.
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