Gateron Melodic vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic and Cherry MX Brown offer unique experiences for users seeking either a clicky or tactile switch. The Gateron Melodic redefines the clicky switch category with its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing a buttery feel with a resonant and invigorating sound. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown stands out for its subtlety, offering a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. While the Melodic is perfect for those who crave a crunchy typing experience, the MX Brown caters to individuals looking for a more textured and bassy feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
The Gateron Melodic and Cherry MX Brown switches have different housing materials, with the Melodic using polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, while the MX Brown utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the MX Brown produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. However, both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Melodic and MX Brown switches use nylon, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out the keys. While the top and bottom housing materials may differ between the two switches, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a consistent sound experience when typing on either switch. Both the Melodic and MX Brown switches offer a comfortable typing experience with their nylon bottom housing, providing a satisfying sound profile that some users may prefer.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Melodic and Cherry MX Brown switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic offers a sharper and crisper sound, especially suitable for those who enjoy a higher-pitched profile with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the MX Brown provides a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who prefer a softer and more absorbent typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches deliver reliable performance and unique sound qualities that cater to varying preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Melodic switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly lighter in both aspects compared to the Melodic switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the MX Brown may be the preferred choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Melodic switch with its higher bottom out force may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Melodic and MX Brown switches offer consistent and comparable results. Despite any other differences between the two switches, such as actuation force or tactile feedback, users can rely on getting a similar keystroke experience in terms of travel distance with either option.
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 Brown 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 switch is known for its resonant and crunchy characteristics, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, giving a deeper and richer tone during key presses that is characterized by a lower frequency range. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on whether you prefer a higher-pitched clicky sound or a deeper, bass-heavy tone.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Melodic switch is praised for its buttery and invigorating qualities, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. These switches provide a satisfying and reactive typing sensation with a moderate to firm actuation force. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switch is described as textured, indicating noticeable friction when pressed. While some users may prefer this tactile feedback, others may find it distracting or uncomfortable. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to whether you prioritize a buttery and invigorating typing experience or a more textured and feedback-heavy feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Melodic switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound profile with a buttery and invigorating typing experience, while the MX Brown switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound with a textured feel. Both switches excel in their respective categories, so users can expect satisfying results no matter which option they choose, as long as it aligns with their personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Melodic clicky switch or the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it really comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a more pronounced clicky sound with a higher-pitched and resonant profile, along with a buttery and invigorating typing feel, then the Gateron Melodic switch might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle and subdued typing experience with a bassier and low-pitched sound profile, along with a textured feel, then the Cherry MX Brown switch would be more fitting. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize the sound, feel, and overall typing experience. So, consider your preferences and needs carefully before making your decision.
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