TTC Gold Brown vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Melodic stand out as popular options with distinct features. The Gold Brown is praised for its balanced nature, offering a slight bump and moderate weightiness that provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic redefines the clicky switch category by incorporating advancements such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems to deliver a classic clicky sound without sacrificing smoothness. Each switch is categorized by unique descriptors like 'Buttery' and 'Invigorating'. While the Gold Brown exudes a sense of polish and neutrality, the Melodic offers a more crunchy and resonant typing experience. 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Melodic utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, making it ideal for switches meant for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In terms of aesthetics and sound, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches creates a unique and vibrant typing experience.
On the other hand, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This combination of materials in the housing of the switches allows for a dynamic typing experience, with the qualities of the nylon bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel while the polycarbonate top housing affects the sound when the key is released.
While the TTC Gold Brown and Gateron Melodic both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing and nylon for their bottom housing, the overall typing experience may vary slightly due to the distribution of qualities between the two materials. However, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile, with the polycarbonate top housing providing a sharp and clear sound while the nylon bottom housing offering a deeper and fuller sound. The unique combination of these housing materials in each switch contributes to a well-rounded and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Brown has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Melodic's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Brown requires 63 grams while the Melodic needs 60 grams, making them relatively similar in this aspect. The Gold Brown provides a medium level of resistance, which may appeal to those who prefer a balance between light and heavy typing experiences. On the other hand, the Melodic offers a slightly lighter actuation force, which could be beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a similar feel when pressing down on either switch, as the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is the same. This makes them ideal for those who prefer a consistent key press experience. Overall, both switches offer a standard travel distance, so users can expect to get similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 TTC Gold Brown switch provides a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various uses. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch offers a resonant and crunchy sound, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience, particularly popular for clicky switches. The sound of these switches is also influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Brown switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience, with a balanced tactile bump that is not too extreme. This creates a safe middle-ground zone that many users find approachable. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel that enhances typing immersion.
Considering all available information, it is evident that the TTC Gold Brown and Gateron Melodic switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Brown switch provides a balanced and moderate typing experience, while the Melodic switch offers a more immersive and resonant sound with a snappy and reactive feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between these two switches for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Gold Brown if you prioritize a balanced typing experience with a slight bump and moderate weightiness, along with a softer sound profile suitable for various settings. On the other hand, choose the Melodic if you prefer a revitalized clicky switch with smooth factory lubing, dual-railed stems, and a higher-pitched, crisp sound profile for an immersive auditory experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for feel and sound when selecting between the Gold Brown and Melodic switches.
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