Gateron Melodic vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come to mind are the Gateron Melodic and the Cherry MX Black. The Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that has made waves in the clicky switch category due to its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing users with a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback while maintaining smoothness. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black is a linear switch that has been perfected by Cherry, offering a textured smoothness and a deep sound profile when typing. While the Melodic is described as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy', the MX Black is characterized as 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', and 'Stiff'. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Melodic and the Cherry MX Black switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with a well-rounded sound profile.
However, where the switches differ is in their top housing material. The Melodic utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that resonates more clearly, making it ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the MX Black features a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a different typing experience compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Cherry MX Black switches play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing feel of each switch. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deep and full sound, the choice between a polycarbonate top housing for a crisper sound (Melodic) or a nylon top housing for a fuller sound (MX Black) can greatly impact the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, the housing materials of these switches offer distinct options for customization based on individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is clear that the Melodic switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, as it requires None grams to trigger a keystroke compared to the 60 grams needed for the MX Black switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Melodic switch bottoms out at 60 grams, which is lighter than the 80 grams needed for the MX Black switch. This means that while the Melodic switch offers a lighter actuation force, it provides a similar bottom out force to the MX Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions, or a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is evident that both provide a consistent and similar tactile experience for users. With a travel distance of 4 mm, both switches offer a moderate level of key travel that falls within the standard range for mechanical keyboard switches. This means that whether you choose the Gateron Melodic clicky switch or the Cherry MX Black linear switch, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key 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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, providing a high-pitched sound profile with an immersive auditory experience and a clean, sharp sound. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch produces a low-pitched sound profile, giving a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when typing on them. Both switches deliver distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their auditory preferences.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switch is characterized as textured and stiff, providing noticeable friction when pressed and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. Depending on personal preference, users can select a switch that aligns with their desired typing experience, whether it be a smooth and effortless feel or a more tactile and resistant sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Melodic provides a resonant, crunchy sound with a buttery, invigorating feel, while the MX Black delivers a low-pitched sound with a textured, stiff sensation. Both switches are engineered to enhance the typing experience for users seeking different auditory and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that users can customize their mechanical keyboard to suit their unique typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when making a decision between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force and a resonant or crunchy sound profile, along with a buttery or invigorating feel, the Gateron Melodic switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a low-pitched sound profile, along with a textured or stiff feel, the Cherry MX Black switch could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique experiences, so it's important to try them out for yourself to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences.
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