Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic and Outemu Tom stand out as distinct options for users seeking different typing experiences. The Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that has gained popularity for its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing a satisfying tactile feedback without sacrificing smoothness. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom is a tactile switch that offers a different typing experience. While the Melodic is described as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy', the Tom lacks specific descriptors. Each switch offers unique advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
The Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Tom both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Additionally, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While the top housings of the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Tom are made of the same polycarbonate material, the differences in their bottom housings may affect the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, which has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will be evident when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite these variations, both switches offer a unique typing experience due to the combination of their housing materials.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Tom share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile. However, the nylon bottom housings of each switch contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, with the softer nature of nylon absorbing more noise. The differences in their housing materials ultimately create a distinct typing experience for users, as the impact of the top and bottom housings vary in how they influence the sound and feel of each keystroke.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is clear that they have different characteristics when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Melodic switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch in terms of the force needed to fully press down a key. On the other hand, the Tom switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, indicating a lighter touch needed to trigger a keystroke. The bottom out force for the Tom switch is unknown, but it is likely lighter than the Melodic switch given the lower actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Tom switch may be the preferred choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Melodic switch with its heavier bottom out force may be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision 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 Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Tom switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Melodic switch. The 3.3 mm travel distance of the Tom switch may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Melodic switch may provide a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience desired.
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 Tom 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
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch is known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, providing users with a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. In terms of feel, the Melodic switch offers a buttery and invigorating typing sensation, with smooth and fluid keystrokes combined with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. On the other hand, there is no information available on the sound or feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a unique sound profile and a smooth typing experience, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is a great option to consider. However, without information on the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. Ultimately, trying out different switches and determining your personal preferences is the best way to find the right fit for your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, it is important to consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force, a resonant and crunchy sound profile, as well as a buttery and invigorating feel, then the Gateron Melodic may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if bottom out force is not a crucial factor for you and you prefer a different sound and feel profile, the Outemu Tom could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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