Gateron Smoothie Linear Switches: Performance Review

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can make a world of difference in your typing experience. Among the many options available, the Gateron Smoothie Switch Series stands out as an excellent choice that offers a unique set of features and performance capabilities. Let's take a closer look at what makes these switches so special.

Introduction to Gateron Smoothie Switch Series

The Gateron Smoothie Switch Series comprises several variants, each with its own distinct characteristics. We'll be comparing the Gateron Smoothie Switch, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Switch, and the Gateron Smoothie Silver Switch to understand their biggest differences.

Gateron Smoothie Switch Set

• Typing Style: Linear, which provides a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a seamless typing experience, especially for tasks like gaming or fast-paced typing where you don't want any interruptions in the keystroke feel.
• Housing: Made of full POM material. POM is known for its durability and smoothness, ensuring that the switch not only lasts long but also provides a pleasant tactile feel every time you press a key.
• Operating Force: With an operating force of 40±10gf, it requires a relatively light touch to activate. This means you can type for longer periods without experiencing excessive fatigue in your fingers.
• Pre Trave: It has a pre-travel of 2.0±0.6mm. This is the distance the key travels before it actually activates the switch, and this measurement helps in determining the responsiveness of the switch.
• Total Travel: The total travel of 3.6mm±0.2mm gives you a good amount of key travel, allowing for a satisfying keypress experience.
• Spring: Equipped with a 22mm double stage spring. The double stage design provides a more nuanced feel during the keystroke, adding to the overall smoothness and responsiveness of the switch.
• Pre-Lubed: Yes, it comes pre-lubed. This is a great advantage as it reduces friction and further enhances the smoothness of the switch right out of the box, saving you the hassle of having to lubricate it yourself.

Gateron Smoothie Silver Switch Set

• Typing Style: Also linear, maintaining that smooth and uninterrupted keystroke feel.
• Housing: Full POM material, just like the other switches in the series, guaranteeing durability and a nice tactile surface.
• Operating Force: Has an operating force of 45±15gf, which is slightly higher than the regular Gateron Smoothie Switch. This might require a bit more force to press the keys, but it can also provide a more distinct actuation feel for some users.
• Pre Trave: The pre-travel is 1.2±0.3mm, which is shorter compared to the Gateron Smoothie Switch. This results in a quicker activation of the switch, making it more responsive for those who need rapid key presses.
• Total Travel: With a total travel of 3.4mm±0.4mm, it offers a slightly different key travel experience, but still within a range that provides a satisfying press.
• Spring: Utilizes a 22mm double stage spring, similar to the Gateron Smoothie Switch, contributing to the smooth and responsive keystroke.
• Pre-Lubed: Yes, it is pre-lubed, ensuring a smooth operation from the start.

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Switch Set

• Typing Style: Linear, offering that consistent and smooth typing feel.
• Housing: Full POM material, maintaining the high-quality build and tactile feel.
• Operating Force: Has an operating force of 48±10gf, which is relatively higher compared to the other two switches in the series. This might appeal to users who prefer a bit more resistance when typing, giving a more substantial feel to each keypress.
• Pre Trave: The pre-travel is 2±0.6mm, similar to the Gateron Smoothie Switch, providing a familiar activation distance before the key actually activates the switch.
• Total Travel: With a total travel of 3.7mm±0.2mm, it offers a slightly longer key travel, which can give a more pronounced and satisfying keypress experience for some users.
• Spring: Uses a 22mm one stage spring. While different from the double stage springs in the other switches, it still provides a good level of responsiveness and smoothness to the keystroke.
• Pre-Lubed: Yes, it comes pre-lubed, ensuring a smooth and friction-free operation.

As you can see, each of these switches in the Gateron Smoothie Switch Series has its own unique combination of features that can cater to different typing preferences. Whether you prefer a lighter touch, quicker activation, or more resistance, there's a Gateron Smoothie Switch variant that's likely to suit your needs.

Comparison with other switches such as Cherry Gateron, K2 Red Switch.

Cherry Gateron

When comparing Gateron switches to Cherry Gateron switches, there are several key differences to note. Gateron switches are often praised for their smoothness, which is in part due to their use of high-quality materials like POM for the housing. Cherry Gateron switches, on the other hand, have their own unique characteristics. While they also offer a good typing experience, Gateron switches tend to have a more consistent and smoother keystroke feel, especially in the linear variants. Additionally, Gateron switches often come pre-lubed, which gives them an edge in terms of smoothness right out of the box. Cherry Gateron switches may require additional lubrication to achieve a similar level of smoothness.

K2 Red Switch

The K2 Red Switch is another competitor in the mechanical keyboard switch market. Compared to Gateron switches, the K2 Red Switch has a different typing style and feel. Gateron switches, especially the linear ones like the Smoothie Series, offer a very smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump. The K2 Red Switch, on the other hand, may have a slightly different feel, which could be more or less appealing depending on personal preference. In terms of operating force, Gateron switches like the Smoothie Series have a range of operating forces that can be tailored to different user preferences. The K2 Red Switch also has its own specific operating force, which may or may not be suitable for everyone. Overall, Gateron switches offer a diverse range of options that can provide a more customized typing experience compared to the K2 Red Switch.

When choosing between different switch brands and types, it's important to consider your own typing preferences, whether you prefer a smooth and consistent keystroke, a tactile feel, or a specific operating force. Gateron switches, with their wide range of options and excellent features, are a great choice for many users.