Gateron Melodic vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic and Gateron Mountain Top offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Melodic stands out for its clicky nature, providing users with a satisfying tactile feedback and classic clicky sound. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch is known for its linear design, offering a quieter typing experience ideal for office environments. While the Melodic switch boasts qualities like being 'resonant' and 'crunchy', the Mountain Top switch is described as 'bouncy' and 'subtle'. Depending on whether you prioritize a tactile and audible typing experience or a quiet and smooth one, you may lean towards the Melodic or Mountain Top switch. 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Gateron Mountain Top, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Melodic features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Mountain Top utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound. While the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Mountain Top's nylon top housing offers a classic feel with a more rounded sound profile.
Another distinction between the two switches can be found in their bottom housing materials. Both the Melodic and the Mountain Top feature nylon bottom housings, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. However, this softer nature causes the sound to be duller and rounder in the case of both switches. While the bottom housing may not play as large of a role in the overall sound profile as the top housing, it still contributes significantly to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of the switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Melodic and the Gateron Mountain Top will depend on personal preference and desired sound profile. The Melodic's polycarbonate top housing offers a crisper and sharper sound, perfect for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. In contrast, the Mountain Top's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who enjoy a more classic typing feel. Both switches utilize nylon bottom housings, ensuring a consistent level of sound absorption and typing feedback regardless of the top housing material chosen. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Melodic or the Mountain Top, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Melodic switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it light to press down, and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which provides a medium resistance when fully pressing the key. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch has an actuation force of 40 grams, indicating a slightly heavier initial press, and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is lighter compared to the Melodic switch. In terms of weight, the Melodic switch would be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter keystroke for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Mountain Top switch would cater to those who enjoy a slightly heavier key press for a more pronounced typing experience. However, both switches offer a unique feel based on their actuation and bottom out forces, resulting in a satisfying typing experience for users seeking either light or medium resistance.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is clear that the Melodic has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Mountain Top's 3.4 mm. The Melodic switch offers a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key, which may appeal to those who prefer a more tactile response. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times and may be favored by gamers looking for quick keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a longer or shorter travel distance.
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 Mountain Top 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 is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, offering a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch provides a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement that is suitable for various environments. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch also depends on the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle typing experience. These characteristics make it comfortable for extended typing sessions and suitable for shared spaces due to its gentle resistance.
Overall, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile and audible typing experience, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch caters to individuals who prefer a quieter and smoother typing sensation. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. Keep in mind that the choice of keyboard, keycaps, and environment will also play a significant role in the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. Opt for the Melodic if you enjoy a resonant and crunchy sound profile, along with a buttery and invigorating typing feel. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a tactile and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch is perfect for office settings where quietness is key, offering a neutral sound profile and bouncy, easy-to-press feel. If you value a light actuation force and a discreet typing experience, the Mountain Top switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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