Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Lotus stand out as two unique options with distinct characteristics. The Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, is renowned for its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, delivering a classic clicky sound with tactile feedback without sacrificing smoothness. Described as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy', this switch is ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience with audible feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus, a linear switch, offers a different typing feel without any audible click. While there is limited information available about the Lotus, linear switches are known for their consistent keypresses and smooth actuation. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style; 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
35g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Lotus switches both feature nylon in their bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel from both switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their top housing material. The Melodic utilizes polycarbonate in its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Lotus features a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon in the top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in top housing material gives users the option to choose between a crisper sound from the Melodic or a fuller sound from the Lotus.
In terms of aesthetics, the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting to illuminate the switch. In comparison, the Lotus's nylon top housing does not offer the same translucency for RGB lighting effects. While both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, the Melodic may be preferred by users looking for a sharper sound with RGB lighting capabilities, while the Lotus may be favored by those seeking a deeper and fuller sound without RGB lighting options.
Weight
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch have noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Melodic switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered a medium force. In comparison, the Lotus switch has an actuation force of 35 grams, making it lighter than the Melodic, and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is also lighter. The Melodic switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the Lotus switch offers a lighter actuation force and bottom out force, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the Melodic. The Melodic's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper key press feel, which some may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus's 3.3 mm travel distance is shallower, catering to those who prefer faster response times and a more responsive typing feel. Both switches offer different typing experiences due to their travel distance, so the choice between them will depend on personal preference for depth and responsiveness.
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 Lotus 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 offers a resonant and crunchy experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile that provides an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Lotus linear switch is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also vary based on factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with seamless typing sensation and pronounced feedback. As for the Outemu Lotus linear switch, information on its feel is not available.
Overall, if you prefer a clicky switch with a resonant and crunchy sound profile, as well as a buttery and invigorating feel, the Gateron Melodic may be the ideal choice for you. Unfortunately, information on the Outemu Lotus switch is limited in this comparison, but based on the available data, it may offer a different typing experience. Remember to also consider your personal preferences and needs when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, then the Gateron Melodic with 60 grams would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, then the Outemu Lotus with 50 grams would be more ideal for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a resonant and crunchy sound profile along with a buttery and invigorating typing feel, the Gateron Melodic would be the better option for you. However, if sound and feel are not significant factors for you, the Outemu Lotus might be a more practical choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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