Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Red. The Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that stands out for its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, offering users a satisfying tactile feedback and classic clicky sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Red is a linear switch with a straightforward design. The Gateron Melodic is often favored for its 'buttery', 'resonant', 'invigorating', and 'crunchy' feel, while the Outemu Red provides a simpler 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
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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
The housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Red switches both feature polycarbonate for the top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting integration. While both switches have the same top housing material, they may differ in the bottom housing material. The Melodic utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the Red also has a nylon bottom housing, similarly impacting the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound.
Despite having similar top and bottom housing materials, the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Red switches may offer slightly different typing experiences due to the specific properties of the housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in both switches' top housing creates a distinctive sound profile when pressing down on the keys, as well as when releasing them. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the top housing amplifies the switch's sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing, on the other hand, absorbs more sound, resulting in a softer and potentially more muted typing experience. This difference in sound profile can impact user preference based on personal typing preferences.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Red switches showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate in the top housing to enhance the sound profile and visual aesthetics with RGB lighting. While the nylon bottom housing in each switch adds depth and richness to the typing experience, the specific qualities of the bottom housing material may slightly differentiate the feel and sound produced by each switch. Overall, the combination of materials in the housing of these switches creates a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is evident that the Melodic switch has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Red switch's 46 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Melodic requiring 60 grams and the Red needing 62 grams. This means that while the Melodic switch may feel lighter to type on initially, both switches will provide a similar typing experience once the keys are fully pressed. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions or a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they both have a consistent distance that the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get a similar typing experience with both switches, as they will feel the same amount of key travel when pressing down on the keys. Both switches provide a medium amount of travel distance, not too short or too long, making them ideal for users who prefer a balanced key press feel. As a result, choosing between the two switches based on travel distance alone would not be a deciding factor, as they both offer an identical typing experience in this regard.
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 Red 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, with a higher-pitched sound profile and a crisp, satisfying click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch does not have specific sound descriptors available, but linear switches typically provide a quieter and smoother typing experience compared to clicky switches. However, the sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is known for its buttery and invigorating feel. This means that users can enjoy a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a satisfying tactile feedback and firm actuation force, creating a seamless and immersive typing sensation. As for the Outemu Red linear switch, there is no specific information available on its feel. Linear switches like the Outemu Red are typically known for their consistent keystrokes and lack of tactile bump or audible click, providing a smooth and efficient typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant, crunchy sound profile and a buttery, invigorating feel for users seeking a tactile and auditory typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch provides a quieter and smoother typing experience with no specific sound or feel descriptors available. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, both switches can offer satisfying results for different types of users.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a classic clicky sound with a smooth keystroke and tactile feedback, the Gateron Melodic would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly higher bottom-out force, the Outemu Red might be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference and the typing experience you find most enjoyable. So, experiment with different switches to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
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