Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Spring Breeze 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 Spring Breeze, both clicky switches. The Gateron Melodic stands out for its innovative features, such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, which enhance the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback while providing a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze does not have any specific standout features but is still a reliable choice for those seeking a clicky switch. Each switch has its own unique characteristics, with the Gateron Melodic being described as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy', while information about the Spring Breeze's characteristics is not available. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This means that users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either of these switches. The use of nylon, being a softer plastic that absorbs sound, contributes to a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. The similarities in the bottom housing material suggest that the actual typing experience between the two switches may be quite similar in terms of sound and feel.
However, where the Melodic and the Spring Breeze differ is in their top housing materials. The Melodic features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound that is particularly well-suited for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a more muted and rounded sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Spring Breeze will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While both switches offer a similar typing experience with their nylon bottom housing, the difference in top housing materials will impact the overall sound and feel of each switch. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound with the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing or a deeper and fuller sound with the Spring Breeze's nylon top housing, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience in their own unique way.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it is clear that they have differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron Melodic has an actuation force of None grams, making it difficult to determine, while its bottom out force is 60 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly lighter and falling into the medium-light category. The Melodic switch provides a more defined typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Spring Breeze offers a lighter actuation force for smoother keystrokes. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the two switches based on whether they prefer a lighter or heavier typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a satisfying typing experience for any user.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch both have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key that uses either of these switches, users will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. Since both switches have identical travel distances, users can expect similar tactile feedback and typing experiences when using keyboards with these switches. In terms of travel distance, the Melodic and Spring Breeze switches offer the same level of keypress consistency and feedback.
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 Spring Breeze 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, providing a clean and sharp sound profile similar to stepping on crisp autumn leaves. The auditory experience is immersive, making typing a satisfying and enjoyable activity. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch's sound qualities remain unknown, making it difficult to directly compare to the Melodic. However, both switches are known for their clicky nature, which can add an extra layer of satisfaction to the typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a buttery and invigorating typing sensation. The keystrokes are smooth and fluid, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience. The pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and snappy feel make typing on the Melodic switch invigorating and immersive. Unfortunately, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch's feel qualities are unknown, making it challenging to make a direct comparison to the Melodic. However, based on the qualities of the Melodic, one can expect a similar level of tactile feedback and smoothness from the Spring Breeze.
Overall, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch brings a combination of smoothness, crisp sound, and invigorating feel to the table, creating a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. While the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch's specific sound and feel characteristics remain unknown, it is safe to assume that it will provide a clicky typing experience similar to the Melodic. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, along with other factors such as keycap and keyboard choice.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter touch, the Spring Breeze with a bottom out force of 55 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly firmer feel, the Melodic with a bottom out force of 60 grams could be the better choice. Additionally, if you enjoy a resonant and crunchy sound profile along with a buttery and invigorating typing experience, the Melodic would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences to ensure you have an enjoyable typing experience with your mechanical keyboard.
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