Durock Medium Tactile vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a plethora of options available on the market. Two popular choices, the Durock Medium Tactile and the Gateron Melodic, offer unique experiences for users looking for tactile and clicky switches, respectively. The Durock Medium Tactile stands out for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature, making typing a satisfying and immersive experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic rejuvenates the clicky switch category with features like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, ensuring users can enjoy the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with added smoothness. While these general pointers can help you make an initial decision on which switch might be right for you, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for your specific preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Medium Tactile and the Gateron Melodic both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, these switches produce a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall aesthetic of the keyboard. In terms of sound profile and performance, users can expect similar results from both the Medium Tactile and the Melodic due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
In contrast, the Medium Tactile utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, while the Gateron Melodic also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder bottom housings. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the similarities in their use of nylon for the bottom housing may lead to a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both the Medium Tactile and the Melodic.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will be divided between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing is more influential in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. This highlights the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials when selecting switches for a keyboard, as they each contribute unique characteristics to the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that the Medium Tactile has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Melodic's 60 grams. However, both switches have an actuation force of None grams, resulting in a similar experience when triggering a keystroke. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Melodic may be the preferred choice due to its lower bottom out force, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Medium Tactile with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference based on the preferred weight and feel during typing or gaming activities.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Medium Tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar feel when typing or gaming with either switch, as the distance traveled by the key will be the same. The consistent travel distance of 4 mm allows for precise and comfortable typing experiences, whether you prefer the tactile response of the Durock Medium Tactile or the clicky sound of the Gateron Melodic. Overall, the travel distance of these switches contributes to a smooth and satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature, offering a balanced tactility without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound profile, giving users a higher-pitched and crisp auditory experience that is characteristic of clicky switches. The choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, with the Medium Tactile offering a more subdued and balanced sound, while the Melodic provides a more immersive and sharp clicky sound.
In terms of feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as accented, stepped, mild, and polished, providing a medium level of tactility that is smooth and refined. Users can expect a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. The choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for feel, with the Medium Tactile offering a medium level of tactility that is not overwhelming, while the Melodic provides a more pronounced and invigorating typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Durock Medium Tactile and Gateron Melodic switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Medium Tactile provides a balanced and gentle typing experience with a jelly-like sound signature, while the Melodic offers a crisp and sharp clicky sound with a pronounced and invigorating feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If a user enjoys a medium tactile switch with a subdued sound, they may prefer the Durock Medium Tactile, while those looking for a more immersive clicky experience may opt for the Gateron Melodic switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Gateron Melodic switches, consider the characteristics that matter most to you. If you're looking for a tactile switch with a balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile may be the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with smooth factory lubing and a dual-railed stem for a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Gateron Melodic could be your ideal choice. Additionally, take into account the bottom out force and sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to make an informed decision based on your preferences and typing style. Ultimately, choose the switch that best suits your typing needs and preferences for an optimal typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
