The =) smiley is actually a far superior smiley than the :-) or :) smiley. The reason behind this is in the eyes. Rather than two measly dots, the =) smiley has two big happy looking eyes. Those eyes provide much more surface area for light to hit, and reflect onto the =) smiley's retinas, allowing it to have clearer vision compared to the rival smileys. Plus, for the typist, it is also very easy to type!