Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Milk Peach
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Milk Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, and the Outemu Milk Peach, a linear switch. The Gateron Melodic has gained recognition for revitalizing the clicky switch category with features such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing users with a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback while maintaining smoothness. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Peach is a linear switch with no specific standout features mentioned. The Gateron Melodic is often praised for its 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy' characteristics, whereas the Outemu Milk Peach does not have any specific categories listed. When choosing between these switches, it's important to consider whether you prefer a clicky switch like the Gateron Melodic for its distinct sound and tactile feel, or a linear switch like the Outemu Milk Peach for a smoother keystroke. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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 Milk Peach switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which lead to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound, both switches will provide a similar experience with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Gateron Melodic utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Peach also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches helps to enhance the overall typing experience with a softer touch.
Overall, while both the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Milk Peach switches have the same polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound and aesthetic appeal, they differ slightly in their bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of both switches adds a unique touch to the typing experience, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound from the top housing or a deeper, rounder sound from the bottom housing, both switches provide a variety of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Gateron Melodic has a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance, whereas the actuation force is not specified. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Peach has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter in comparison. However, the bottom out force for the Milk Peach is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Milk Peach for its lower actuation force, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Gateron Melodic. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, with the Melodic offering a medium bottom out force and the Milk Peach providing a lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches compared. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Melodic switch will require slightly more force to press down fully compared to the Milk Peach switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Milk Peach switch due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Melodic switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Milk Peach 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 typing experience, characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile and a clean, sharp click reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch's sound profile is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard body and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch provides a buttery and invigorating typing sensation, with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that offers seamless and uniform feedback. The switch also boasts a moderate to firm actuation force, creating a snappy and reactive feel that enhances the overall typing experience. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch is not described.
Taking all available information into consideration, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a resonant and crunchy sound profile along with a buttery and invigorating typing feel, the Gateron Melodic switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you are specifically looking for a linear switch with a different sound and feel, the Outemu Milk Peach may offer a unique typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch, you should choose the Melodic if you prefer a medium 60-gram bottom-out force, a resonant and crunchy sound profile, and a buttery and invigorating typing feel. On the other hand, you should opt for the Milk Peach if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom-out force, and are looking for a linear switch with a different sound and feel profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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