TTC Flaming Pink vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the TTC Flaming Pink and the Gateron Melodic. The Flaming Pink switch is celebrated for its smooth and responsive feel, paired with a satisfying bottom-out sound that creates a premium typing experience. This linear switch is particularly well-suited for gamers and everyday typists alike, as it offers a bright yet pleasantly muted sound profile. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic reinvigorates the clicky switch category with its unique advancements, such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, which provide a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback without sacrificing smoothness. This clicky switch is characterized as buttery, resonant, invigorating, and crunchy, making it an exciting choice for those who thrive on auditory and tactile stimulation while typing. Both switches serve specific preferences—whether you lean toward a smooth ride or a satisfying click—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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink and Gateron Melodic switches bear striking similarities, particularly in their top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their upper housing, which contributes to a sound profile characterized by sharpness, clarity, and crispness. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the resonance of the sound produced when the switch is engaged, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a bright auditory experience in their typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the effective diffusion of RGB lighting, ensuring that these switches provide not only auditory but also visual appeal.
In contrast to the top housings, both switches share another material for their bottom housing—nylon. This classic switch housing material yields a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. Nylon’s ability to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics results in a sound that is mellower and rounder, impacting the overall acoustic experience during key presses. Consequently, while the top housing contributes to the sharpness of the sound upon release, the nylon bottom housing creates a warm undertone when keys are bottomed out, allowing users to enjoy a balanced sound profile.
Ultimately, the combination of these materials in both the TTC Flaming Pink and Gateron Melodic switches creates a cohesive sound experience. With polycarbonate providing clarity and resonance in the top and nylon offering warmth in the bottom, the two switches deliver complementary acoustic qualities. As a result, users can expect a synergistic typing experience, characterized by both crispness and depth, regardless of the switch chosen. This consistent material selection between the two products makes them particularly appealing for those prioritizing a dynamic auditory experience while typing.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Flaming Pink linear switch has a light actuation force of 43 grams and a slightly higher bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch has an unknown actuation force but features a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, suggesting a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer. Overall, the TTC Flaming Pink is the lighter option, while the Gateron Melodic, with its higher bottom out force, is heavier, catering to those who desire a firmer keypress.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, there is a distinct difference between the two. The Flaming Pink has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Melodic switch features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Flaming Pink offers a more responsive experience, making it potentially more appealing to gamers who prefer quicker key presses. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic, with its greater travel distance, could appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced key feel and deeper actuation. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches may depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or depth in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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 Flaming Pink switch offers a bright yet subtle auditory experience, punctuated by a satisfying bottom-out sound that is neither overpowering nor overly loud—making it ideal for versatile settings. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch presents a more complex auditory landscape, characterized by a resonant and crunchy sound profile. The Melodic engages users with a higher-pitched click that mimics the enjoyable crunch of stepping on autumn leaves, creating an immersive and lively typing experience. While the Flaming Pink provides a clean sound without being intrusive, the Melodic leans into a classic clicky resonance that certainly stands out on a crowded desk.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Pink switch is known for its smooth and responsive keystrokes, designed to deliver a premium typing experience that embodies fluidity, making it suitable for both gaming and everyday typing tasks. Meanwhile, the Gateron Melodic switch takes a more nuanced approach by combining elements that many typists find invigorating: a buttery smoothness thanks to its factory lubing and dual-railed stems, alongside a pronounced tactile feedback. This results in a snappy and reactive sensation that engages typists, blending smoothness with the satisfying resistance typical of clicky switches. While both switches emphasize smoothness, the Flaming Pink leans fully linear while the Melodic balances smoothness with tactile feedback.
In summary, the TTC Flaming Pink and Gateron Melodic switches offer distinct experiences catered to different preferences. The Flaming Pink excels in delivering a clean and smooth typing experience with a gentle sound profile, making it great for diverse environments. The Gateron Melodic, on the other hand, imparts an engaging auditory richness alongside invigorating tactile feedback that speaks to those who enjoy the classic clicky feel. Whether you prefer a linear switch with elegant quietness or a clicky switch full of character, both options can provide satisfying results, depending on your typing style and desired auditory feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you are seeking a smooth, responsive typing experience that is light to the touch, particularly for both gaming and everyday tasks, the Flaming Pink is an excellent option. Its comfortable actuation force and satisfying bottom-out sound make it well-suited for users who prioritize fluid keystrokes without excessive noise. Conversely, if you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback coupled with a distinctive auditory experience, then the Gateron Melodic should be your choice. With its medium actuation force and notable clicky sound, it appeals to those who appreciate deeper sonic engagement during typing, reminiscent of the satisfying crunch of fallen leaves. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to your typing style—whether it’s the smoothness and quiet nature of the Flaming Pink or the invigorating and resonant clicks of the Melodic—to ensure you select the switch that enhances your overall keyboard experience.
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