Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic and Outemu Cream Pink offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Melodic stands out as a clicky switch that has been reinvigorated by Gateron with advancements such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. This results in a switch that delivers a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback while maintaining a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Pink is a linear switch that provides a different feel altogether. While the Cream Pink doesn't have a specific standout feature mentioned, linear switches are generally known for their smooth key presses without any tactile feedback or audible click. So, if you are someone who enjoys a 'buttery', 'resonant', and 'invigorating' typing experience, the Gateron Melodic may be the switch for you. However, if you prefer a 'crunchy' feedback-free typing experience, the Outemu Cream Pink could be more up your alley. But, 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Cream Pink switches have distinct differences in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Melodic's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffness, while the Cream Pink's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound through its softer and sound-absorbing properties. Both switches offer unique sound experiences based on their top housing materials, with the Melodic providing a crisper sound ideal for RGB lighting and the Cream Pink delivering a more mellow and round sound.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Melodic and the Cream Pink switches utilize nylon for its deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition and sound absorption qualities contribute to a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the typing experience on both switches. Despite the difference in top housing materials, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound profile between the two switches. This similarity in bottom housing material results in a uniformity in sound quality, allowing users to enjoy a similar typing experience regardless of the switch they choose.
Overall, the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Cream Pink switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing material compositions. While the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing emphasizes a sharp and crisp sound, the Cream Pink's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share the use of nylon in the bottom housing, providing a consistent and enjoyable typing experience with a round and mellow sound. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Melodic or a deeper sound with the Cream Pink, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, it is evident that the Melodic has a lighter actuation force compared to the Cream Pink. The Melodic has an actuation force of None grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke compared to the Cream Pink, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Melodic at 60 grams and the Cream Pink at 65 grams. The Melodic provides a lighter typing experience, perfect for extended typing sessions, while the Cream Pink offers a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Since both switches have an equal travel distance, you can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and overall typing experience. The similar travel distances of these switches make them ideal choices for users who prefer a consistent typing feel across different keyboards.
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 Cream Pink 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 clicky switch is known for its resonant and crunchy qualities, offering a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is unknown, so it's hard to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, both switches can deliver satisfying sound depending on the setup of your keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Melodic switch is often described as buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with seamless, effortless typing sensations and pronounced feedback. Meanwhile, the feel of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is unknown. However, if both switches are designed to be top-notch, you can expect a similarly satisfying typing experience with a different tactile and auditory feedback for each.
Considering the information available, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch seems to excel in providing a unique and immersive sound and feel with its resonant and crunchy qualities, while the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch has unknown characteristics in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have their own strengths and can offer a great typing experience, depending on your preference for clicky feedback or linear smoothness. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in sound and feel for an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a medium bottom out force that offers a resonant and crunchy sound profile along with a buttery and invigorating feel, then the Gateron Melodic would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are not concerned with sound and feel descriptions, then the Outemu Cream Pink would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for typing experience and the specific characteristics that matter most to you.
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