TTC Bluish White vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the TTC Bluish White, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch. The Bluish White is renowned for its satisfyingly poppy typing experience, accompanied by a snappy sound profile, perfect for those seeking a tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic stands out in the clicky switch category with its incorporation of smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, ensuring a classic clicky sound without compromising on smoothness. While the Bluish White offers a subtle and polished typing experience, the Melodic provides an invigorating and crunchy feel. These distinctions can help you decide which switch aligns best with your typing preferences; 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, both the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Melodic feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting effects. However, their nylon bottom housings differ slightly in sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings.
While both switches share similar polycarbonate top housings, the slight variation in sound profile between the nylon bottom housings of the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Melodic can impact the overall typing experience. The TTC Bluish White's nylon bottom housing provides a duller and rounder sound, while the Gateron Melodic's nylon bottom housing offers a similar deep and full sound profile. This difference in sound profile highlights how the choice of housing material can affect the overall typing experience, making each switch unique in its own way.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in the TTC Bluish White and the Gateron Melodic creates a balanced sound profile that caters to different preferences. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that appeal to a variety of users.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, we can see differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Bluish White switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The actuation force of the Melodic switch is not specified, so it is unclear how it compares to the Bluish White in that aspect. Overall, those looking for a lighter switch should go for the TTC Bluish White, while those wanting a heavier switch may prefer the Gateron Melodic. The actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience, so users should consider their preferences before making a selection.
Travel distance
The TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Melodic switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Bluish White switch. The difference may not be significant, but for those who prefer a shallower key press, the Bluish White switch might be more appealing. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch might be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Melodic switch being more traditional in its length. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 it comes to sound, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch offers a low-pitched and snappy sound profile, which is bass-heavy and mellow. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound, with a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. The Melodic switch also delivers that classic clicky sound without compromising on smoothness. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can be affected by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Bluish White and Melodic switches are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The Bluish White switch also offers a mild, stepped, subtle, and polished feel, making it suitable for a wide range of users with its gentle resistance and refined finish. On the other hand, the Melodic switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. These qualities make typing on the Melodic switch a truly immersive experience.
Considering the available information, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a low-pitched, buttery typing experience with the Bluish White switch, or a resonant, crunchy feel with the Melodic switch, both switches provide satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Bluish White tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a low-pitched, buttery feel with a snappy sound profile, the Bluish White may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force with a resonant, crunchy sound profile and an invigorating feel, the Melodic switch might suit your typing style better. Consider your typing habits, sound preferences, and desired level of tactility when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience based on your individual preferences.
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