Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Brown offer unique experiences for users. The Gateron Melodic stands out as a clicky switch, known for its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems that provide a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown is a tactile switch, offering a different typing experience altogether. While the Melodic is categorized as buttery, resonant, invigorating, and crunchy, the Brown switch doesn't have any specific categorization provided. If you're someone who enjoys a clicky and satisfying typing experience, the Gateron Melodic may be the way to go. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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 Outemu Brown switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. The use of this material allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Melodic and Brown switches differ in their bottom housings, with the Melodic utilizing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Brown also utilizes nylon for a similar effect. The softer nature of nylon allows for sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Overall, both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Melodic's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing results in a unique typing experience with a sharp initial sound followed by a deeper resonance. Similarly, the Outemu Brown switch provides a consistent sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, offering a crisp and clear sound with a deeper tone. While the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic and Outemu Brown switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile of mechanical switches. Both switches offer a balance of sharpness and depth in their sound, with the choice between polycarbonate and nylon creating variations in tone and feel. Whether it be for gaming or typing, the right housing material can greatly enhance the overall typing experience and satisfaction of using mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Melodic switch has an actuation force listed as None grams, making it unclear how much force is needed to trigger a keystroke, while its bottom out force is 60 grams, indicating a medium resistance level. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch has an actuation force of 53 grams, requiring a lighter touch to register a keystroke, and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Melodic switch. The Melodic switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Outemu Brown switch, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing feel for extended use. However, for users who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Outemu Brown switch with its heavier bottom out force may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches. In comparison to other switches that may have shorter or longer travel distances, the Melodic and Brown switches offer a standard amount of travel that is preferred by many users for a balanced 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 Brown 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 renowned for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, providing users with a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch's sound quality is unknown. When it comes to the feeling of the switches, the Melodic is characterized by a buttery and invigorating typing sensation, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and snappy feel. The tactile feedback from the Outemu Brown switch is unknown.
Overall, if you are seeking a clicky switch with a clean and sharp sound profile, coupled with a smooth and buttery typing feel, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a different sound and feeling, the Outemu Brown tactile switch may also provide a satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and with the right combination of keyboard and keycaps, you can achieve a similar level of satisfaction from either switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Melodic clicky switch or the Outemu Brown tactile switch, you should opt for the Melodic if you prioritize a smooth and resonant typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile and crisp tactile feedback. Additionally, if you enjoy a buttery and invigorating typing sensation, the Melodic switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more subtle typing experience without any specific sound or feel descriptors, then the Outemu Brown tactile switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
