Gateron Melodic vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Melodic and the TTC Neptune mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options that cater to different preferences. The Melodic offers a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing a 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Crunchy' typing experience. On the other hand, the Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, offering a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a unique springy resistance that gives it a 'Buttery', 'Gummy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Subdued', 'Thocky' feel. While the Melodic excels in providing a traditional clicky typing experience, the Neptune focuses on a smooth and quiet keystroke. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Melodic and TTC Neptune switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Melodic utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Neptune's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches use a polycarbonate bottom housing, which results in a clear and resonant sound profile. While the Melodic's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing adds to the overall clarity of the switch's sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Gateron Melodic's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a visually appealing choice for users looking to customize their keyboards. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune's POM top housing may not offer the same level of transparency, but it provides a unique and pleasing sound experience that sets it apart from other switches on the market. Both switches offer a different experience based on their housing materials, catering to a variety of preferences for keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Melodic and TTC Neptune switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While the Melodic's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials creates a balance between sharpness and depth in sound, the Neptune's POM and polycarbonate housing materials offer a different experience with a focus on a unique sound profile. Whether you prioritize a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more muted tone, both switches provide high-quality options with their distinct housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Melodic switch has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Neptune switch's 50 grams. In terms of actuation force, the Neptune switch requires 41 grams, while the Melodic switch's actuation force is unknown. The Neptune switch can be considered lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Melodic switch. This difference in weight can impact the typing experience, as lighter switches may be preferred for extended typing sessions or gaming, while heavier switches may provide a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, we can see that the Melodic has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Neptune has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Melodic switch falls into the more traditional range of travel distances, offering a standard depth for key presses. On the other hand, the Neptune switch provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. Those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience may lean towards the Melodic switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 typing experience, characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile and a clean, sharp click reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch provides a low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky sound, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a quiet, refined ambiance suitable for various settings. The sound produced by both switches will be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycap selections, ultimately affecting the overall auditory experience for the user.
When it comes to feel, both the Melodic and Neptune switches share some characteristics. Both switches provide a buttery typing experience, characterized by a smooth and fluid keystroke that offers seamless and effortless typing. Additionally, the Neptune switch is described as gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished, providing a unique typing sensation akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear, a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction, a gentle typing experience suitable for most users, and a refined finish resulting in sleek and polished key travel, respectively. These qualities contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users seeking different tactile feedback options.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Melodic switch delivers a resonant and crunchy sound with an invigorating typing feel, the Neptune switch provides a low-pitched, muted sound signature with a harmonious blend of smooth and frictionless keystrokes. Both switches cater to different preferences, offering users a choice between a classic clicky experience with a tactile feel and a smoother, quieter typing experience with a unique sensation reminiscent of chewy delights. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom-out force, a resonant and crunchy sound profile, and a buttery and invigorating feel, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light bottom-out force, a low-pitched and muted sound profile, along with a gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished feel, then the TTC Neptune linear switch would be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure you find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
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