Huano Grape Orange vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference, particularly between linear and clicky options. The Huano Grape Orange switch is celebrated for its exceptionally light typing experience, featuring a mere 40g actuation force that allows for effortless keystrokes. This makes it an exceptional choice for users who prioritize comfort and speed during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch brings a refreshing twist to the clicky switch category, combining innovative features such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. These advancements ensure that users not only enjoy the satisfying clicky sound but also benefit from an incredibly smooth typing experience. While the Grape Orange excels in offering a quiet and fluid performance ideal for typing or gaming, the Melodic is perfect for those who find joy in audible feedback and tactile sensations. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Huano Grape Orange and Gateron Melodic switches share a similar composition in their top housing, utilizing polycarbonate, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile. The attributes tied to polycarbonate—its stiffness and translucency—are key to the overall auditory experience of these switches. As a result, users can expect a more defined sound when activating the keys. The visual appeal, particularly when working with RGB lighting, is another common benefit, as the clear polycarbonate allows for vibrant light diffusion. Therefore, those who prioritize sound clarity and aesthetics in their keyboards can achieve similar results with either switch due to this shared housing material.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, which lends a distinctively deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's softer characteristics absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, creating a rounder auditory experience. This contrast in materials between the top and bottom of each switch contributes to a nuanced typing experience—while the polycarbonate top modifies the resonance to be sharper, the nylon bottom acts as a counterbalance, fostering a richer and more muted sound when bottoming out. Thus, the combination of these materials allows for a well-rounded acoustic profile, blending the clarity of polycarbonate with the depth of nylon.
In summary, while the Huano Grape Orange and Gateron Melodic switches differ in the sound characteristics due to their distinct top and bottom housing materials, the overall composite effects result in a balanced typing experience. Both switches offer the crispness attributed to polycarbonate in the top housing and the fullness brought by nylon in the bottom housing. This synergy allows users to enjoy the benefits of clear sound and aesthetic lighting, regardless of the specific model chosen, as they generate a harmonious blend of characteristics that caters to diverse preferences in sound and feel during use.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch to the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, we can observe distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Grape Orange switch has a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for prolonged typing sessions or intense gaming, as the lighter pressure can reduce finger fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch has an unspecified actuation force but a firmer bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a more substantial feel when keys are fully pressed down. As a result, while the Grape Orange is the lighter option overall, the Melodic switch offers a heavier experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Since both switches have differing bottom out forces, users can expect a unique typing experience with each, catering to a variety of preferences in key resistance and feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, a notable difference is evident. The Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Melodic measures 4 mm. This makes the Grape Orange the shorter switch, appealing to gamers who prefer quicker response times, whereas the Melodic's longer travel distance of 4 mm offers a more satisfying, gradual keystroke that some users find more comfortable for typing. As a result, those who favor a more abrupt feel may lean towards the Grape Orange, while users who appreciate a heartier depth in their keystrokes might opt for the Gateron Melodic. In summary, with the Grape Orange being shorter and the Melodic longer, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference for responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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 Huano Grape Orange switch has a notably quieter profile compared to the Gateron Melodic clicky switch. While the specific sound characteristics of the Grape Orange are not detailed, this linear switch is known for its subdued auditory output, making it conducive to environments where noise levels are a concern. On the other hand, the Melodic switch shines with its resonant and crunchy acoustics, providing a distinct click that evokes a sharp, higher-pitched sound reminiscent of crunching leaves. This auditory feedback is ideal for users who enjoy the traditional clicky switch experience, offering a more engaging soundscape.
When it comes to feel, the Grape Orange offers an exceptionally light actuation with only a 40g force required to register a keystroke. This results in a smooth and effortless typing experience that prioritizes comfort during long typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Melodic is characterized by a buttery smooth keystroke alongside invigorating feedback. This combination produces a snappy and reactive feel that enhances typing accuracy and satisfaction, appealing to those who appreciate tactile engagement in their keystrokes.
Altogether, if you prefer a quieter typing experience that allows for effortless operation, the Huano Grape Orange switch might be a better choice for you. However, if you're looking for a switch that delivers an engaging auditory experience along with pronounced tactile feedback, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch will likely suit your taste. Depending on your typing preference—whether it's silence or sound—both switches have unique qualities that cater to different needs, ensuring you'll enjoy similar engaging results through different experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch should depend largely on your typing preferences and the type of experience you're seeking. If you prioritize a light, effortless typing feel, especially for long writing sessions or gaming, the Grape Orange is an excellent choice. Its extremely low actuation force of 40 grams makes it a wonderful option for those who prefer a smooth and quick keystroke without the distraction of sound; this switch is all about comfort and ease. On the other hand, if you enjoy auditory feedback and a more tactile experience while typing, the Gateron Melodic is the way to go. With its 60-gram bottom-out force and resonant clicky sound, it offers a satisfying typing experience characterized by its clean, sharp feedback and invigorating tactile response. This switch is ideal for traditional typists and those who revel in the enjoyable sound and feel of each keystroke. Therefore, reflect on how you like to type or game, and choose the switch that aligns with those preferences to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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