KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Melodic offer unique features to suit different preferences. The Cream Yellow is a linear switch renowned for its bouncy and clacky sound, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance and long-pole stem. On the other hand, the Melodic by Gateron is a clicky switch that stands out for its buttery smoothness and dual-railed stems, providing a satisfyingly crunchy and resonant typing experience. While the Cream Yellow is ideal for those who enjoy a distinct audio feedback and bouncy feel, the Melodic caters to users who seek a classic clicky sound with enhanced smoothness. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Melodic switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housing creates a more resonant sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a clear and defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to these switches.
However, the key difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Cream Yellow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Melodic's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a more muted and rounded typing experience. This contrast in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches when in use.
Overall, while both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the differing bottom housings of the Cream Yellow and the Melodic play a major role in the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. Whether you prefer a crisper and more resonant sound with the Cream Yellow or a deeper and fuller sound with the Melodic, the choice of housing material can greatly influence your typing preference. Regardless of the differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience that is enhanced by their choice of housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, we can see that both switches have a medium weight to them. The Cream Yellow requires an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Melodic has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 60 grams. In terms of weight, the Cream Yellow is lighter in actuation force, while the Melodic is heavier in bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Cream Yellow for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Melodic. Overall, both switches provide a medium weight feel, so users can expect similar results in terms of force required for keypresses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Cream Yellow has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Melodic has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Melodic has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow. In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance provides a more satisfying typing experience for some users. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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
In terms of sound, the Cream Yellow linear switch is best known for its clacky and sharp sound, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy sound, reminiscent of walking on crisp autumn leaves. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is lauded for its bouncy typing experience, offering a spring-like feedback that gives keys a lively feel with rebound upon pressing. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a reactive sensation. Again, the decision between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for typing feel and overall typing experience.
Taking into account the subjective qualities of both switches, individuals looking for a linear switch with a more clacky sound and bouncy typing feel may prefer the Cream Yellow, while those seeking a clicky switch with a resonant sound and buttery typing feel might gravitate towards the Gateron Melodic. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will rely on the user's personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Nonetheless, users can expect consistent and satisfying results with either switch due to the high-quality manufacturing standards of both KTT and Gateron.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, you should consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Cream Yellow would be your best choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a resonant and crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating typing feel, the Melodic switch would suit your taste. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the type of typing experience you are looking for, whether it be a lively and bouncy feel or a smooth and immersive one.
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