KTT Kang White vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Melodic stand out as unique options, each offering distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Kang White is a linear switch known for its poppy typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, thanks to its self-lubricating material. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic reinvigorates the clicky switch category with smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback. The Kang White is best suited for those who prefer a low-pitched and neutral typing experience, while the Melodic is perfect for those seeking a buttery, resonant, invigorating, and crunchy typing sensation. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Melodic are both made of polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switches. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Kang White produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. The Melodic also features a nylon bottom housing, which provides similar sound qualities to the Kang White.
While both the Kang White and the Gateron Melodic have polycarbonate top housings, their differing bottom housings showcase the impact that different materials can have on the sound profile of a switch. The softer nylon used in the bottom housing of both switches creates a deeper sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate in the top housing contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound. This combination of materials allows for a balanced typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Overall, the mix of materials in these switches creates a unique auditory experience for typists.
Both the KTT Kang White and the Gateron Melodic utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a consistent sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound, offering typists a well-rounded typing experience. The combination of materials showcases the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile of a switch, with each plastic contributing unique qualities to the overall typing experience. Whether using the Kang White or the Melodic, typists can expect a satisfying sound profile that combines the best qualities of both polycarbonate and nylon.
Weight
The KTT Kang White linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 58 grams for the Kang White and 60 grams for the Melodic. The Kang White provides a smoother and lighter typing experience with a lower actuation force, suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Melodic clicky switch offers a more substantial typing feel with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing experience desired.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that they both provide a consistent amount of key travel for users, ensuring a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch is chosen. With the same travel distance, users can expect similar levels of feedback and keypress depth when typing on either switch. This makes both switches suitable choices for those looking for a standard key travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Kang White linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral typing experience, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound profile, delivering a more immersive and sharp auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that can be further enhanced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the information provided about the Kang White switch does not specify any particular descriptors. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. This indicates that the Melodic switch focuses on providing a tactile and responsive typing sensation compared to the Kang White switch.
In conclusion, the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer distinctive subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kang White switch excels in providing a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the Gateron Melodic switch emphasizes a resonant and crunchy typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Melodic switch stands out with its buttery and invigorating feel compared to the Kang White switch. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose either switch to enhance your typing experience based on the qualities described.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and mellow typing experience with a touch of pop in sound, then the KTT Kang White linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisp and sharp clicky sound with a buttery and invigorating feel, you may want to opt for the Gateron Melodic clicky switch. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing. Both switches offer a medium bottom out force, so it really comes down to the type of typing experience you are seeking. Choose wisely and enjoy your mechanical keyboard journey!
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