Gateron Melodic vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic and KTT Orange offer distinct experiences for users. The Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that has received praise for its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, which enhances the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback while maintaining a buttery and resonant feel. On the other hand, the KTT Orange is a linear switch known for its bouncy feel and slick, frictionless typing experience due to its unique construction featuring a polycarbonate milky top housing and long pole POM stem. While the Melodic offers an invigorating and crunchy typing experience, the Orange provides a low-pitched sound profile and a refined, fluid key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the KTT Orange, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Melodic features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, while the Orange utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains the sharper and clearer sound profile associated with this stiffer plastic.
While both switches share the same top housing material, their distinct bottom housing materials significantly impact the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch. The Melodic's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing, which enhances the clear and resonant sound profile. This difference in bottom housing materials highlights how variations in housing materials can affect the overall typing experience and sound output of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Melodic and KTT Orange comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. The Melodic offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon bottom housing, while the Orange provides a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Both switches benefit from the clarity and resonance brought by the polycarbonate top housing, making them a suitable choice for users seeking a switch with a distinct sound profile and potential for RGB lighting effects.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, it is clear that the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Melodic has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Orange has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making the Melodic slightly heavier. In terms of actuation force, the Orange requires 46 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Melodic does not have a specified actuation force. This means that the Orange has a lighter actuation force compared to the Melodic. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Orange switch may be more suitable for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may appreciate the heavier bottom out force of the Melodic switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Melodic switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Orange switch. Generally, a 4 mm travel distance is considered more traditional, providing a nice balance between responsiveness and depth. However, some users may prefer the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Orange switch for a slightly quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether you prioritize a longer or shorter travel distance for your 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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $4.15.
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 higher-pitched sound profile with a clean and sharp tone, similar to the satisfying crunch of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch produces a low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on your personal preference and setup, both switches can deliver a distinct auditory experience, with the Melodic offering a more resonant and crunchy sound compared to the Orange's low-pitched tone.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth and seamless typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy feel. In contrast, the KTT Orange linear switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, with keys that have a spring-like rebound when pressed and a smooth, effortless travel thanks to excellent factory-lubing. While the Melodic switch focuses on delivering a buttery and invigorating typing experience, the Orange switch prioritizes a bouncy and frictionless feel for users who enjoy a lively and fluid keypress.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the KTT Orange linear switch 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 sensation, while the Orange switch delivers a low-pitched sound with a bouncy and frictionless feel. Depending on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on the specific qualities that resonate with you the most. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when making a decision between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Gateron Melodic if you enjoy a higher-pitched and crunchy sound profile, along with a buttery and invigorating typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a classic clicky sound with smoothness and tactile feedback. On the other hand, opt for the KTT Orange if you prefer a low-pitched sound, bouncy and frictionless typing feel. This switch offers a unique bouncy and spring-like sensation with a low-pitched sound profile, perfect for those seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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