Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, both of which are clicky switches. The Gateron Melodic stands out for its innovative features, including smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, which results in a buttery and resonant typing experience. With its invigorating tactile feedback and crunchy sound, the Melodic switch is a top choice for those who seek a satisfying clicky switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue offers a more traditional approach without any specific standout features but still provides a reliable clicky typing experience. 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
65g
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
Both the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Dustproof Blue feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housing creates a more resonant sound due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better RGB lighting if that is a feature you are looking for in a switch. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate in their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic appeal.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Melodic and the Dustproof Blue incorporate nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a more muted and rounded sound, which can be appealing to those looking for a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer a similar typing experience due to the nylon bottom housing, providing users with consistent qualities in sound and feel when using either switch.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch each bring unique qualities to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing the key. While the Melodic and Dustproof Blue have different bottom housing materials, their similarities in the top housing material ensure that users will still experience a consistent and enjoyable typing experience overall.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Blue requires a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Melodic's unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Melodic has a lighter 60-gram requirement while the Dustproof Blue has a heavier 65-gram bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Dustproof Blue, while individuals wanting a lighter bottom out force may opt for the Gateron Melodic. Overall, both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy typing experience, with the Dustproof Blue leaning slightly towards the heavier side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is clear that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a consistent 4 mm travel distance. Both switches provide a similar tactile feedback and clicky feel due to their identical travel distances. Consequently, whether using the Gateron Melodic or the Outemu Dustproof Blue, users can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and keypress 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 Dustproof 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 typing experience thanks to its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. The higher-pitched sound profile and crisp feedback make typing on this switch a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is unknown, so it is difficult to compare the two in terms of sound alone.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Melodic switch is often described as buttery and invigorating. Typing on these switches provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a pronounced tactile feedback, creating a seamless and rewarding typing sensation. While the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is not specified, it can be assumed that it may offer a similar tactile experience due to its clicky design.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gateron Melodic excels in providing a resonant and crunchy sound profile, paired with a buttery and invigorating typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch's specific sound and feel characteristics are unknown, but it is likely to provide a satisfying clicky experience as well. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and the overall typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, the Melodic with 60 grams would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue with 65 grams may be more to your liking. Additionally, if you value a resonant and crunchy sound profile with a buttery and invigorating typing feel, the Melodic switch would be ideal for you. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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