Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie Linear Switches

This linear switch is a variation of the original Smoothie, designed for users who prefer a smooth keystroke with a slightly longer travel distance. It suits typists and gamers who want a consistent, quiet keypress without tactile bumps. The factory lubrication reduces initial scratchiness, making it comfortable for extended use. It may be less ideal for those seeking tactile feedback or very short travel switches.

Feel & Sound

• Linear feel provides a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without tactile feedback.
• Factory lubrication reduces scratchiness, resulting in a quieter, softer sound profile.
• The longer total travel of 3.7mm offers a more deliberate keypress compared to shorter travel switches.

Actuation Characteristics

• Actuation force of 48g balances lightness and control, suitable for both typing and gaming.
• Pre-travel of 2mm means the key registers after a moderate press depth, which may feel less responsive for fast keypresses.
• Bottom-out force of 58g provides a firm end to the keystroke, reducing accidental presses.

Build Quality

• All POM (polyoxymethylene) construction for top housing, bottom housing, and stem reduces friction and enhances smoothness.
• Uses a 20mm single stage spring, contributing to consistent force throughout the keypress.
• Factory lubrication helps minimize initial stem scratchiness, a common source of noise and roughness.

Compatibility

• PCB-mounted with a 5-pin design, compatible with most standard mechanical keyboard PCBs.
• Unknown LED compatibility and hot-swap friendliness.

Trade-offs

• Longer travel may slow down rapid keypresses for some users.
• Linear design lacks tactile feedback, which some typists prefer for accuracy.
• Unknown response to additional modifications like filming or re-lubing.