Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Peach
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options for enthusiasts are the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, and the Outemu Peach, a linear switch. The Gateron Melodic is favored for its reinvigoration of the clicky switch category, offering a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with the added benefits of smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach stands out for its lightweight and silenced characteristics, providing a feathery light typing experience that is perfect for linear switch lovers. While the Melodic is described as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy', the Peach is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
40g
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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Peach, one can see that while the Melodic features a polycarbonate top housing, the Peach utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Peach produces a deeper and fuller sound. The difference in the stiffness of the plastics used in the top housing results in varying sound profiles, with polycarbonate providing a more clear and resonant tone, and nylon absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Peach use nylon for this component. This means that typing on switches using either of these materials will elicit a deeper and fuller sound compared to switches with a different bottom housing material. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounded sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users will experience similar sound qualities when using either the Melodic or the Peach switches.
In summary, the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Peach differ in their top housing materials, with the former utilizing polycarbonate for a sharper sound and the latter employing nylon for a deeper sound. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile. The choice of housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, plays a significant role in determining the sound characteristics of a switch, affecting factors such as pitch and resonance. Ultimately, users can choose between the Melodic and the Peach based on their preference for a sharper or deeper sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, it is evident that the Peach switch is lighter in both aspects. The Melodic switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Peach switch requires 40 grams of force. In terms of bottom out force, the Melodic switch requires 60 grams, whereas the Peach switch only needs 50 grams. This means that the Peach switch offers a lighter typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Peach switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing experience is desired with a bit more resistance, the Melodic switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Peach linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Melodic switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Peach switch. A 0.7 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the typing experience for some users. Those who prefer a deeper keypress may lean towards the Melodic switch, while those who prioritize speed and response time may opt for the Peach switch. Both switches offer a balance between depth and quick actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences.
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 Peach comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile and sharp, crisp clicks reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach linear switch provides a more neutral and muted sound, offering a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for shared spaces or quiet environments. When it comes to feel, the Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke with pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. In contrast, the Peach switch offers a mild and subtle typing experience, with a gentle resistance and a polished finish for a sleek and refined typing sensation.
Overall, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch offer significantly different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Melodic switch provides a more resonant and crunchy typing experience with a buttery and invigorating feel, the Peach switch offers a neutral and muted sound with a mild and subtle feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between these two switches to find the one that best suits their needs. If looking for a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, users may find comparable results with other clicky or linear switches that offer similar qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a resonant and crunchy sound profile with a buttery and invigorating feel, then the Gateron Melodic may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a neutral and muted sound profile with a mild, subtle, and polished feel, then the Outemu Peach could be more suitable for your typing needs. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision, and enjoy the unique typing experience that each switch has to offer.
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