TTC Honey vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the TTC Honey and the Gateron Melodic. The Honey switch is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, offering a deep and pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, the Melodic switch by Gateron reinvigorates the clicky switch category with advancements such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing a classic clicky sound with tactile feedback without sacrificing smoothness. The Honey switch is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'Subtle', 'Polished', while the Melodic switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Crunchy'. Each switch offers unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Honey and Gateron Melodic both feature a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This makes them ideal for switches designed to produce a clear and resonant sound, especially when used with RGB lighting. However, the Melodic differs from the Honey in its choice of a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches.
The contrasting housing materials of the Honey and Melodic offer users a choice between a sharper, crisper sound profile with the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing, or a deeper, fuller sound profile with the Melodic's nylon bottom housing. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing that enhances the sound clarity and resonance, the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a distinctive sound when releasing a key, while the softness of nylon in the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing in both the TTC Honey and Gateron Melodic ensures a consistent clear and resonant sound profile when using RGB lighting. However, the difference in bottom housing materials between the two switches introduces a variation in sound characteristics. The Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Melodic's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that the Honey is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams, while the Melodic is slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Honey also has a lower bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Melodic switch. The actuation force for the Melodic switch is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare in that aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Honey may be preferable for those who type or game for extended periods, as it requires less effort to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Melodic switch may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing pressure and overall typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Honey 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 compared to the Honey switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Melodic being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Honey switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Melodic switch for its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel desired for typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 Honey switch offers a more subdued and dampened sound profile, providing a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Melodic switch from Gateron produces a resonant and higher-pitched sound, coupled with a crunchy texture akin to stepping on autumn leaves. The choice between the two will come down to personal preference for the type of sound you enjoy while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Honey switch is described as creamy, frictionless, and buttery, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with a silky sensation. In contrast, the Melodic switch is also described as buttery but with an invigorating touch, providing pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. If you prefer a smoother typing experience, the Honey switch may be more to your liking, while the Melodic switch might appeal to those who appreciate a bit of additional tactile feedback.
Considering the information provided, both the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Honey switch provides a smooth and creamy feel with a subdued sound profile, the Melodic switch from Gateron offers a more resonant and crunchy sound, along with an invigorating typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Luckily, both switches offer high-quality performance, so no matter which one you choose, you can expect a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, creamy typing experience with a deep sound profile, then the TTC Honey linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force, a clicky sound profile that is resonant and crunchy, and a buttery typing sensation with pronounced feedback, then the Gateron Melodic clicky switch might be more suited to your liking. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision to ensure that you select the switch that best matches your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
