Gateron Melodic vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic stands out as a clicky switch that delivers a satisfying experience with its classic clicky sound and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i offers a tactile switch option that provides gentle tactility without sacrificing a quiet typing experience. The Melodic is described as 'Resonant' and 'Crunchy', appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feel, while the Mini i is characterized as 'Bouncy' and 'Subtle', catering to users who prefer a lighter touch. Both switches have their own unique strengths and are suitable for different preferences and environments. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Gateron Mini i, we can see that both switches feature nylon bottom housings. This means that typing on both switches will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound. However, the Melodic stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Mini i features a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a deeper sound profile but with a duller and rounder tone compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic.
While both switches share nylon bottom housings, the Gateron Melodic's polycarbonate top housing brings a unique sound profile that is sharp and resonant, ideal for those who prefer a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with a slightly duller tone. This contrast in top housing materials can greatly impact the overall typing experience and sound produced by these switches. However, the nylon bottom housing on both switches ensures a consistent deeper sound profile regardless of the top housing material used.
In terms of design and aesthetics, the Gateron Melodic's polycarbonate top housing stands out due to its translucency, making it an ideal choice for users who want to showcase RGB lighting in their keyboards. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i's nylon top housing may not have the same visual appeal, but it still offers a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities in their housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and aesthetics for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it's clear that the Mini i is the lighter option in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Melodic clicky switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, while the Mini i tactile switch has an actuation force of 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Melodic has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is medium, whereas the Mini i has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is lighter. This means that the Mini i tactile switch requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Melodic clicky switch. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mini i, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Melodic.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Mini i has a shorter travel distance compared to the Melodic. The Melodic offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Mini i provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the Mini i for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Melodic with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy experience, providing a high-pitched sound profile with a clean, sharp auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various purposes. The different sound profiles of these switches cater to individual preferences and settings, ensuring users can select the one that best suits their needs.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is characterized by being bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, providing a spring-like sensation with minimal force required, making typing effortless and comfortable. These varying tactile experiences cater to different typing preferences, allowing users to choose the switch that enhances their typing experience the most.
Considering the available information, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer distinct experiences in terms of sound and feel. While the Melodic switch provides a resonant and invigorating sound with a buttery feel, the Mini i switch offers a neutral sound profile and a variety of tactile sensations from bouncy to stepped. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, users can select the switch that aligns with their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality construction and performance that can elevate the typing experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a higher-pitched and immersive sound profile along with a buttery and invigorating typing experience, the Melodic switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel that is light on the fingers and ideal for long typing sessions in a quieter office environment, then the Mini i switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing needs, so choose based on what aligns best with your personal typing style.
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