TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer distinct advantages for different types of users. The Gold Red Pro is lauded for its versatility, providing a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that suits various environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic stands out for reinvigorating the clicky switch category, offering a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback with smoothness in mind. While the Gold Red Pro excels in adaptability, the Gateron Melodic focuses on delivering a classic clicky experience with modern enhancements. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Melodic are quite similar in terms of their top and bottom housings. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, when it comes to their nylon bottom housings, both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound.
While the top housings of the Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Melodic are both made of polycarbonate, the bottom housings differ in material. The Gold Red Pro features a nylon bottom housing, while the Gateron Melodic also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that enhances the sound profile of typing with its softer texture. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when a key is released. Both switches offer a blend of qualities from their housing materials to create a unique typing experience.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gold Red Pro and the Gateron Melodic present similarities and differences. Both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, providing a sharp and clear sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. The nylon bottom housings of both switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, with nylon's sound absorption properties creating a rounder tone. The distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials impacts the typing experience, with each switch offering a unique combination of sound and feel for users to enjoy.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in their typing experience. The Gold Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a lighter touch. In contrast, the Melodic has an unknown actuation force, but a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while the Melodic may require more force to press all the way down, the Gold Red Pro offers a smoother and lighter typing experience overall. If both switches had the same unknown forces, users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between a lighter or heavier switch will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Melodic switch has a slightly longer travel distance than the Gold Red Pro switch. The difference may seem small, but it can impact the overall feel and performance of the switch. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific use case.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that is neutral and pleasing to the ear. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound that is sharp and immersive. The Gold Red Pro's sound is more subdued and suitable for various environments, while the Melodic's sound is more vibrant and attention-grabbing, catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Red Pro switch is known for its polished, silky, mild, and subtle characteristics, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, providing a fluid keystroke feel with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. While the Gold Red Pro prioritizes a subtle and comfortable typing experience, the Melodic switch focuses on delivering a more stimulating and responsive feel to users.
Overall, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch excels in versatility and adaptability, providing a neutral sound and smooth typing experience suitable for a wide range of users and settings. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch prioritizes a more engaging and audible typing experience with its resonant and crunchy sound profile and buttery, invigorating feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring that regardless of your choice, you can achieve a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch or the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a versatile switch that offers a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gold Red Pro is the way to go. This switch is suitable for various settings and tasks, making it a dependable choice for all-around use. On the other hand, if you seek a clicky switch that delivers a classic clicky sound with smoothness and tactile feedback, the Gateron Melodic is the better option. It provides a resonant and crunchy typing experience that is immersive and satisfying for those who enjoy the traditional clicky switch feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your sound and feel preferences, as well as the specific tasks you need the keyboard for.
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