Bsun Hutt vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Bsun Hutt and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Hutt and the Gateron Melodic offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Hutt switch boasts a medium-heavy spring and a prominent tactile bump, providing a snappy and sharp typing feel. On the other hand, the Melodic switch from Gateron features smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, delivering a buttery and crunchy typing experience with classic clicky sound and tactile feedback. While the Hutt switch is known for its balanced sound profile, the Melodic switch excels in offering a smooth typing experience without compromising on tactile feedback. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
49g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
20.5mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Hutt and Gateron Melodic both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. This means that both switches will offer a clear and resonant sound profile, making them suitable choices for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Hutt utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Melodic also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the material used in their bottom housings, ensuring a satisfying sound and feel while typing.
While the top and bottom housings of the Hutt and Melodic switches may differ, they both ultimately contribute to the overall typing experience. The qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities ensures that both switches offer a well-rounded typing experience, with the combination of polycarbonate and nylon providing a harmonious blend of sound profiles for typing enthusiasts to enjoy.
Weight
The Bsun Hutt tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gateron Melodic clicky switch which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Gateron Melodic has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Bsun Hutt's 49 grams. This means that the Bsun Hutt is lighter to press down but requires more force to fully bottom out, while the Gateron Melodic offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter key press may opt for the Bsun Hutt, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback may lean towards the Gateron Melodic for a more satisfying typing experience. Both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a tailored typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Bsun Hutt tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Melodic has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Hutt. A 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in how the switch feels when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may lean towards the Hutt for a quicker response time, while those who enjoy a deeper press may opt for the Melodic. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their travel distance, so choosing between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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, both the Bsun Hutt and Gateron Melodic switches are described as resonant, providing a higher-pitched sound profile that offers an immersive auditory experience with clean and sharp tones. While the Melodic switch also adds a crunchy element to its sound, both switches excel in delivering a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles. It is worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Hutt switch is known for being snappy, invigorating, sharp, and accented, offering a tactile typing sensation with a balanced feedback intensity. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth, fluid keystroke experience that is both seamless and effortless. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering responsive feedback and varying levels of actuation force, catering to different preferences for tactile feedback.
Overall, both the Bsun Hutt tactile switch and Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for users. While the Hutt switch provides a medium-heavy spring and a prominent tactile bump with a balanced sound profile, the Melodic switch incorporates advancements like factory lubing and dual-railed stems to deliver a smooth and clicky typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can expect a rewarding typing experience with either switch option, achieving similar results in terms of overall satisfaction.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Bsun Hutt tactile 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 distinct tactile bump with a balanced sound profile, the Bsun Hutt may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium bottom out force, smooth factory lubing, and a classic clicky sound with smoothness, the Gateron Melodic could be the switch for you. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to determine which aligns more closely with your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing needs and preferences.
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