Gateron Smoothie Linear Switches: Smoothness Galore

The Gateron Smoothie Switch Series has been making waves in the mechanical keyboard community. It offers several variants, each with its own unique characteristics. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Gateron Smoothie Switch, Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Switch, and Gateron Smoothie Silver Switch, and check out their biggest differences.

Gateron Smoothie Switch Set

The Gateron Smoothie Switch is a linear switch. It features a full POM (Polyoxymethylene) material housing, which provides a certain level of durability and smoothness. The operating force of this switch is 40 ± 10gf, meaning it requires a relatively light touch to actuate. The pre-travel is 2.0 ± 0.6mm, and the total travel is 3.6mm ± 0.2mm. It comes with a 22mm double stage spring and is pre-lubed, which helps to enhance the smoothness of the keystroke right out of the box.

Gateron Smoothie Silver Switch Set

The Gateron Smoothie Silver Switch is also a linear switch with a full POM material housing. However, it has some differences compared to the regular Gateron Smoothie Switch. Its operating force is 45 ± 15gf, slightly higher than the standard Smoothie Switch. The pre-travel is 1.2 ± 0.3mm, which is shorter, and the total travel is 3.4mm ± 0.4mm. It also has a 22mm double stage spring and is pre-lubed, ensuring a smooth typing experience.

Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Switch Set

The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Switch is another member of this series. Like the others, it's a linear switch with a full POM housing. Its operating force is 48 ± 10gf, making it the one that requires the most force to actuate among these three. The pre-travel is 2 ± 0.6mm, and the total travel is 3.7mm ± 0.2mm. It features a 22mm one stage spring and is pre-lubed for a smooth operation.

Characteristics of Gateron Smoothie Linear Switches

One of the standout features of the Gateron Smoothie linear switches is their smoothness. The full POM housing contributes to this, as it allows for a seamless glide of the stem within the housing. The pre-lubed nature of these switches further enhances the smooth typing experience, reducing any friction that might occur during keystrokes.

Another characteristic is the linear typing style. This means that there is no tactile bump or click when the switch is actuated. It provides a consistent and even feel throughout the keystroke, which is preferred by many users who are into fast and fluid typing.

Performance Aspects Including Smoothness, Actuation Force etc.

Smoothness, as mentioned earlier, is a top-notch aspect of these switches. The combination of the POM housing and pre-lubing ensures that each keystroke is silky smooth. This not only makes typing more enjoyable but also potentially increases typing speed as there is less resistance to overcome.

The actuation force varies among the different variants of the Gateron Smoothie Switch Series. The Gateron Smoothie Switch has the lowest actuation force at 40 ± 10gf, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. The Gateron Smoothie Silver Switch with 45 ± 15gf and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Switch with 48 ± 10gf require slightly more force, which might be preferred by users who want a bit more resistance or a more deliberate keystroke.

The pre-travel and total travel distances also play a role in the performance. Shorter pre-travel like in the Gateron Smoothie Silver Switch can result in a quicker response time as the switch activates sooner. On the other hand, the total travel distance affects the overall feel of the keystroke. For example, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Switch with its 3.7mm ± 0.2mm total travel might give a more pronounced feel compared to the others.

Comparison with Other Gateron Switches

When compared to other Gateron switches, the Gateron Smoothie Switch Series stands out in terms of its smoothness and linear typing style. Some other Gateron switches might have a tactile or clicky feel, which is a significant difference from the smooth and silent operation of the Smoothie switches.

For instance, Gateron Browns are tactile switches that provide a distinct bump when actuated, while the Gateron Smoothie switches offer a continuous and smooth keystroke without any such tactile feedback. This makes the Smoothie switches more suitable for those who want a pure typing experience without the distraction of tactile sensations.

User Reviews of Gateron Smoothie Switches

Many users have praised the Gateron Smoothie switches for their smooth typing experience. They appreciate the fact that the switches are pre-lubed, saving them the hassle of having to lubricate the switches themselves. Some users have also noted that the linear typing style allows for faster typing speeds, especially for those who are used to a fluid and consistent keystroke.

However, some users have mentioned that the higher actuation force of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Switch might take some getting used to. They feel that it requires a bit more effort compared to the other variants in the series. But overall, the majority of users seem to be satisfied with the performance and feel of the Gateron Smoothie switches.

Where to Get Gateron Smoothie Switches

Gateron Smoothie switches can be found in various places. Many online mechanical keyboard retailers stock these switches. You can check popular e-commerce platforms that specialize in computer peripherals. Some well-known mechanical keyboard manufacturers also offer keyboards equipped with Gateron Smoothie switches, so you might want to look into their product lines as well.

In conclusion, the Gateron Smoothie Switch Series offers a range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a lighter touch with the Gateron Smoothie Switch, a slightly different feel with the Gateron Smoothie Silver Switch, or a more forceful actuation with the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Switch, there's something for everyone. The smoothness and linear typing style make these switches a great choice for those who value a seamless typing experience. By understanding the differences and characteristics of each variant, you can make an informed decision when choosing the right Gateron Smoothie switch for your mechanical keyboard.