Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Melodic offer unique experiences for users. The Keygeek Raw is praised for its material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, creating a creamy yet lightweight switch that provides a slightly textured feel right out of the box. This linear switch is perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy hand-lubing their switches and is categorized as textured, mild, neutral, and subtle. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic brings a new twist to the clicky switch category with advancements like factory lubing and dual-railed stems, allowing users to enjoy the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with added smoothness. This clicky switch is described as buttery, resonant, invigorating, and crunchy. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that cater 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Melodic housing materials, the key difference lies in the materials used for the top housing. The Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, offering a unique sound profile that is not only crisp but also features a different pitch compared to the Gateron Melodic's polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Melodic switches creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, making it a popular choice for those seeking a distinct sound signature. While both materials are durable and provide a satisfying typing experience, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Keygeek Raw incorporates a UMPE & Si blend that is exclusive to their switches, offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic features a nylon bottom housing, a classic material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Keygeek Raw's blend. Ultimately, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch, with nylon offering a more traditional typing experience while the Keygeek Raw's blend provides a more unique sound profile.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Keygeek Raw and Gateron Melodic differ, both switches offer high-quality construction and a satisfying typing experience. The choice between the two will depend on the sound profile and feel that each individual prefers. The Keygeek Raw's blend top housing provides a crisp and unique sound profile, while the Gateron Melodic's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Keygeek Raw and Gateron Melodic provide distinct typing experiences, with the Keygeek Raw's blend offering a unique feel and sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Gateron Melodic provides a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, both switches offer durability and quality that will satisfy typists looking for a premium typing experience.
Weight
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch both have a medium bottom out force, with the Raw being slightly lighter at 57.5 grams compared to the Melodic's 60 grams. While the actuation force for both switches is not specified, it can be assumed that they are similar since the bottom out force is close. Lighter switches like the Raw are ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, allowing for minimal fatigue. On the other hand, the slightly heavier Melodic switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. In conclusion, the choice between the Keygeek Raw and the Gateron Melodic will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, the Keygeek Raw has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Melodic has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Keygeek Raw has a shorter travel distance compared to the Melodic. The shorter travel distance of the Keygeek Raw may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Melodic may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound experience, giving users a higher-pitched and sharp auditory feedback. Depending on personal preference, users may choose between the neutral and immersive sound of the Keygeek Raw or the resonant and crunchy sound of the Gateron Melodic.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch presents a textured and mild typing experience, with a subtle resistance that maintains a gentle typing feel. This switch aims to provide a friction-free typing experience while still offering a tactile sensation. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a buttery and invigorating typing experience, with smooth and fluid keystrokes and pronounced feedback for a reactive feel. Users can choose between the gentle and subtle feel of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw or the smooth and invigorating feel of the Gateron Melodic.
Overall, the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch provide unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Keygeek Raw offers a neutral sound profile with a textured and mild typing experience, the Gateron Melodic presents a resonant and crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating feel. Users should consider their sound and feel preferences when choosing between these two switches to ensure they get the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider the unique material blend and lightweight feel of the Keygeek Raw if you prefer a slightly textured typing experience that is perfect for hand-lubing. On the other hand, opt for the Gateron Melodic if you enjoy a clicky switch with smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems for a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback without sacrificing smoothness. Additionally, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a mild, textured feel, the Keygeek Raw is a great choice. However, if you desire a more resonant and crunchy sound with a buttery or invigorating feel, the Gateron Melodic is the way to go. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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