Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch to the Outemu Black linear switch, it's important to note the distinct features and characteristics that set them apart. The Gateron Melodic offers a unique experience with its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, delivering a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback while maintaining a buttery and resonant feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch provides a simpler linear experience with no specific standout features. If you prefer a more invigorating and crunchy typing experience, the Gateron Melodic may be the ideal choice for you. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Black both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housings leads to a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness. Additionally, polycarbonate is especially useful in switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, despite both switches having the same material for the top housing, they may still have subtle differences in sound and feel based on other factors such as stem design or overall construction.
On the other hand, the Melodic utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The Outemu Black also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience to the Melodic in terms of sound profile. While both switches share the same material for the bottom housing, the overall feel and sound of the switches can still differ based on other factors such as spring weight or stem design.
In terms of overall sound and feel, the qualities brought by the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Black will be split between the two components. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Despite both switches having similar housing materials, the unique design and construction of each switch will ultimately determine the overall typing experience and sound profile for users.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is clear that the Melodic has a lighter actuation force of None grams, while the Black has a higher actuation force of 65 grams. This means that the Melodic switch will require less force to initiate a keystroke compared to the Black switch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Melodic has a medium force of 60 grams, while the Black has a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams. This indicates that the Black switch will provide a more substantial typing experience, requiring more force to fully press down the keys compared to the Melodic switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Melodic, while those seeking a heavier and more tactile typing experience may lean towards the Black switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, both switches will travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and typing experience when using either switch. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same level of key press depth, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a consistent 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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, which provides a higher-pitched, clean, and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch, unfortunately, does not have any specific sound descriptions available. When it comes to feel, the Melodic switch is characterized as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth, fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force for a reactive typing sensation. As for the Outemu Black linear switch, there are no specific feel descriptions provided. Ultimately, while the Melodic switch excels in providing a distinct sound and tactile feedback experience, the lack of information on the Outemu Black switch means that it may not be as easily compared. However, it can be assumed that the linear nature of the Outemu Black switch will result in a smoother keystroke without the audible click of the Melodic switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force, a resonant and crunchy sound profile, as well as a buttery and invigorating feel, then the Melodic switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy bottom out force and are looking for a linear switch, the Black switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences and requirements to enhance your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
