Jerrzi Coral vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Coral and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Jerrzi Coral, a linear switch, and the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch. The Coral switch is renowned for its distinctively crisp typing feel and lower-pitched resonance, offering a sophisticated and stellar performance with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Melodic switch by Gateron rejuvenates the clicky switch category with advancements like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing users with a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback in a smooth and invigorating package. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a switch. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Jerrzi Coral and the Gateron Melodic use polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for the top housing of switches. The use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures that users can expect a consistent sound and aesthetic experience when typing.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Coral and Melodic switches differ in material, with the Coral featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Melodic also opting for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite the difference in top housings, the similarity in bottom housing material between the Coral and Melodic ensures that users will experience a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Jerrzi Coral and Gateron Melodic switches showcases how different materials can impact the sound profile and feel of typing on a mechanical keyboard. While both switches use polycarbonate for their top housings, the differences in their nylon bottom housings contribute to varying sound profiles. As users press down on the switches, they will feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences to the user. The Coral switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to type on for extended periods of time without causing fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the Coral switch is unknown, which may impact the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Melodic switch has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Although the actuation force for the Melodic switch is unknown, users can expect a medium level of force required to trigger a keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Coral linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Coral offers a slightly shorter distance compared to the Melodic. The Coral's 3.7 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a good choice for those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Melodic's 4 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a shorter travel distance for faster responses or a longer travel distance for a more substantial keystroke experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Coral has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Coral for $2.30.
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 Jerrzi Coral linear switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone that provides a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch boasts a resonant, clean, and sharp sound profile that is complemented by a crunchy sensation akin to stepping on autumn leaves. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Coral providing a lower-pitched tone and the Melodic delivering a higher-pitched, more immersive sound.
In terms of feel, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch is described as silky, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance on key presses. Conversely, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as buttery, offering a fluid and seamless keystroke experience that is both smooth and uniform. Additionally, the Melodic switch is noted for its invigorating feedback, moderate actuation force, and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation that can enhance overall typing speed and accuracy. Both switches provide unique tactile sensations, with the Coral focusing on smoothness and the Melodic offering a blend of smoothness and pronounced feedback.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch each offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Coral switch provides a lower-pitched sound and a silky smooth typing experience, while the Melodic switch offers a more resonant and invigorating feel accompanied by a buttery typing sensation. Depending on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience. If a user enjoys a mellower, silkier typing experience, the Coral switch is a great choice, while those seeking a more immersive, resonant sound with pronounced feedback may prefer the Melodic switch. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that can cater to different preferences and enhance the overall typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Jerrzi Coral linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and silent typing experience with a lower-pitched sound profile, the Coral switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the classic clicky sound, tactile feedback, and a more immersive auditory experience, the Melodic switch would be a better fit. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Coral and Melodic switches will depend on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.