Kailh Box White vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box White and Gateron Melodic are both popular choices in the clicky switch category. The Box White is praised for its high-pitched, crunchy sound that resembles stepping on autumn leaves, providing a satisfying tactile feedback for users. On the other hand, the Melodic from Gateron offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a resonant and invigorating click sound, thanks to advancements such as factory lubing and dual-railed stems. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Kailh Box White and the Gateron Melodic switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, the differences in the bottom housings of these switches bring a distinction in sound as well. The Box White's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Melodic's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housings, the variance in their nylon bottom housings allows for unique acoustic experiences when typing on each switch. The Box White's combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing results in a mix of sharp, clear sounds from the top and deeper, fuller sounds from the bottom. Conversely, the Melodic's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a blend of sharp, resonant notes on top and more absorbed, rounder tones on the bottom. These differences in housing materials showcase how the construction of a switch can influence the overall sound and feel of typing.
In terms of function, the bottom housing of a switch has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. With the Kailh Box White and Gateron Melodic switches, the properties of the bottom and top housings interact to create a unique typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing produces a sharp and clear sound when the key is released, while the softer nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when the key is pressed. Overall, the housing materials of these switches work in conjunction to offer a blend of sharpness and depth in sound, providing options for users based on their sound preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch is 50 grams, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a force of zero grams for actuation. In terms of bottom out force, both switches require 60 grams of force to fully press the key. This means that the Kailh Box White has a lighter actuation force compared to the Gateron Melodic, but both have the same bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Kailh Box White may be more suitable, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, the Gateron Melodic provides a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Box White has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Melodic. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have an impact on the typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer a quicker response time might appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Box White switch, while others who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming might lean towards the Melodic switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and usage.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, both the Kailh Box White and Gateron Melodic switches offer a resonant experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, providing users with an immersive auditory experience. However, the Box White switch is also described as producing a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, which adds an extra layer of tactile satisfaction to typing. On the other hand, the Melodic switch lacks this specific descriptor but still maintains a clean and sharp sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer the additional crunchiness of the Box White or the smoothness of the Melodic.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch is characterized as buttery and invigorating, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy reactive feel. Both switches aim to ensure a pleasant and satisfying typing sensation, with the Box White focusing more on a polished finish and the Melodic emphasizing a buttery and invigorating feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for typing feel.
Overall, both the Kailh Box White and Gateron Melodic switches offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Box White provides a crunchy sound and polished feel, while the Melodic offers a clean and sharp sound with a buttery and invigorating typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize a specific sound profile or typing feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to individual preferences and requirements for a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider the type of sound and feel you prefer. If you enjoy a higher-pitched, resonant click with a crunchy feel, the Box White might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a resonant click with a buttery and invigorating feel, the Gateron Melodic could be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a great tactile and auditory experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. Make your decision based on what will enhance your typing experience and bring you the most satisfaction.
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