Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic and Outemu Blue both fall under the category of clicky switches, offering users that satisfying click sound and tactile feedback. The Gateron Melodic stands out for its incorporation of smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing a buttery and resonant typing experience that is both invigorating and crunchy. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue, while lacking specific standout features, still delivers a classic clicky switch experience. Choosing between these switches may come down to personal preference and the specific qualities you are looking for in a switch. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Outemu Blue switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which result in a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is due to the polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Both switches provide a similar auditory experience with their polycarbonate top housing, making them a good choice for those who appreciate a distinct sound while typing.
On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Outemu Blue also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with its emphasis on a deeper sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches contributes to their overall sound quality, making them preferred choices for those who enjoy a more muted typing experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Melodic and Outemu Blue switches, the overall typing experience remains consistent due to the split qualities of the top and bottom housing. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This balance between the two housing materials ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying typing sound and feel, catering to a variety of preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is None grams, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch requires 50 grams of force to actuate. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the bottom out force for the Outemu Blue switch is unknown. This means that the Gateron Melodic switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, but heavier when it comes to bottoming out compared to the Outemu Blue switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Melodic switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel may prefer the Outemu Blue switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences, with some opting for longer typing sessions with a lighter actuation force, while others may prefer a stronger push feel for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Melodic and Outemu Blue clicky switches is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a similar amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is being used. Both switches offer a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, making them popular choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Melodic switch offers a resonant and crunchy auditory experience due to its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. This switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile and a clean, sharp sound that is reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch's sound qualities are not specified. However, both switches being in the clicky category, users can expect a satisfying click sound during typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Melodic switch is known for its buttery and invigorating typing experience. With smooth and fluid keystrokes, users can enjoy a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The pronounced feedback and moderate actuation force of the Melodic switch also contribute to a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing experience. On the contrary, the feel of the Outemu Blue switch is not mentioned.
Overall, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch stands out for its smoothness, resonant sound, and buttery feel that offers a premium typing experience. While the Outemu Blue clicky switch may provide similar results in sound and feel due to its clicky nature, the specific details regarding its qualities are unknown. Ultimately, both switches cater to individuals seeking a clicky switch option with distinct sound and feel characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, a resonant and crunchy sound profile, and a buttery and invigorating typing experience, then the Gateron Melodic switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if the bottom out force is not a concern for you, and you have no specific preference for sound and feel, then the Outemu Blue clicky switch might be a suitable option as well. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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