KTT Lightning vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Melodic offer distinct experiences for users to consider. The KTT Lightning is a linear switch known for its speed and responsiveness, making it an excellent choice for gamers who rely on quick keystrokes for victory. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that provides a satisfying tactile feedback and a classic clicky sound profile. For those who enjoy the feeling of each keystroke being pronounced, the Gateron Melodic is a fantastic option. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
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 comparison between the housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Melodic reveals that both switches feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, while the Lightning and Melodic both use nylon for their bottom housing, nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, there may still be subtle differences in sound due to manufacturing processes or design choices. As for the nylon bottom housing, the switches will likely have a similar impact on the overall sound profile, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience. However, the split between top and bottom housings means that the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while the KTT Lightning and Gateron Melodic share similarities in their housing materials, such as polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, there may still be nuances in their sound profiles. Both switches offer distinct advantages, with polycarbonate providing a sharper sound and nylon producing a deeper tone. Ultimately, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from either switch, with differences in sound potentially influencing individual preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch differ in weight. The Lightning switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Melodic switch has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Lightning switch makes it easier to type for extended periods, ideal for work or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Melodic switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that the Lightning has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm, while the Melodic has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Lightning's 3 mm travel distance provides a shallower key press, ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Melodic's 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper key press, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Lightning being shorter and the Melodic being longer, allowing users to choose based on their personal typing style and comfort.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 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
In terms of sound, the KTT Lightning linear switch is best described as having a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a hint of chirpiness. This results in a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy sound profile, creating a clean and sharp sound that is reminiscent of stepping on crispy autumn leaves. Both switches offer unique sound signatures that cater to different preferences, so the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired aesthetic for your typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Lightning switch is characterized as having a subtle and polished touch. This means that it provides a gentle resistance with a light typing feel, while also offering a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. On the contrary, the Gateron Melodic switch offers a buttery and invigorating typing sensation. With smooth and fluid keystrokes and pronounced feedback, this switch provides an effortless and immersive typing experience. Again, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and the desired level of feedback and actuation force.
In conclusion, both the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lightning switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a subtle and polished typing feel, the Melodic switch offers a resonant and crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding sound profile, tactile feedback, and actuation force. However, regardless of the choice, users can expect a rewarding typing experience with either of these expertly crafted mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider your typing preferences and use case scenarios. If you prioritize speed and a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile, the Lightning switch may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you are a gamer where milliseconds matter. On the other hand, if you appreciate a classic clicky sound with smoothness and dual-railed stems for a satisfying tactile feedback, the Melodic switch could be more suitable, offering a resonant and immersive typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value speed and efficiency or the traditional clicky feel and auditory satisfaction in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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