TTC Iron vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Iron and Gateron Melodic offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The TTC Iron's linear switch is favored for its pronounced clacky sound signature and lightweight actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience that is both precise and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch stands out for its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, which offer a buttery feel and classic clicky sound with tactile feedback. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different users based on their preferences for key feel and sound. 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
41g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Gateron Melodic switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Iron's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, offering a visually appealing option. On the other hand, the Iron's POM bottom housing maintains a similar sound profile to the top housing, while the Melodic's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature.
Despite their differences, both the Iron and the Melodic switches demonstrate the impact that housing materials can have on sound and feel. The POM top housing of the Iron and the polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic each contribute to the overall sound profile, with the POM offering a more muted tone and the polycarbonate providing a crisper sound. Similarly, the bottom housing materials - POM for the Iron and nylon for the Melodic - influence the typing experience by creating either a deeper or duller sound, respectively. Both switches show how housing materials can play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard.
In terms of functionality, the differences in housing materials between the Iron and Melodic switches showcase the variety of options available to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The split in qualities between the top and bottom housing of a switch highlights how each component contributes to the overall typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, combined with the influence of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key, demonstrates the intricate relationship between housing materials and tactile feedback. Whether opting for the deeper, muted sound of POM in the Iron or the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Melodic, users have the opportunity to customize their typing experience to suit their preferences.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Melodic switch has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Iron switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Melodic switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Iron switch offers a lighter touch for smoother typing. Both switches have their own advantages depending on user preferences. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Iron switch, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may prefer the Melodic switch. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a crucial role in the typing experience and should be carefully considered when choosing a keyboard switch.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch both have different travel distances that can impact the overall typing experience. The Iron has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter compared to the Melodic's 4 mm. This means that the Iron will require slightly less force and distance to actuate, providing a quicker and more responsive typing feel. On the other hand, the Melodic's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a more pronounced keypress. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider what type of typing experience you are looking for before making a decision.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 Iron linear switch is best known for its clacky and sharp sound signature that resonates with each press, providing a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as having a resonant and higher-pitched sound profile, offering users a clean and sharp auditory feedback. While the Iron switch focuses on a crisp and bright sound, the Melodic switch leans towards a more immersive and crunchy sound reminiscent of autumn leaves.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and minimal force required for activation. This results in a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is known for its buttery and smooth keystroke experience, providing users with a seamless and uniform typing sensation. The Melodic switch also offers an invigorating feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive feel for an immersive typing experience.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky sound with a light actuation and easy-to-press feel, the TTC Iron linear switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a resonant sound with a buttery smooth typing experience and invigorating feedback, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a light actuation force, smooth travel, and a clacky sound signature, the TTC Iron switch would be a great choice for enthusiasts and daily users seeking precision and pleasure in every keystroke. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium actuation force, a resonant and crunchy sound profile, along with a buttery and invigorating typing feel, the Gateron Melodic switch would be a suitable option for those who appreciate a more immersive and tactile typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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