Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Phoenix are both clicky mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics for users seeking an engaging typing experience. The Gateron Melodic stands out for its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing a buttery and resonant feel with an invigorating crunchiness. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix offers a distinctive under-skirt click mechanism that delivers a crystalline and sparkling typing experience with a polished touch. While both switches excel in providing a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Melodic leans towards a smoother feel while the Phoenix offers a more unique sound profile. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Melodic and Outemu Phoenix both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This results in a more clear and resonant sound that is especially useful for switches designed to be illuminated with RGB lighting. However, the Melodic stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Melodic and Phoenix switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate in their top housing, making them ideal choices for users looking to showcase RGB lighting effects. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches enhances their visual appeal while also contributing to a more pronounced sound profile when keys are released. However, the differentiation in bottom housing materials sets the Melodic and Phoenix apart in terms of their overall sound characteristics. The Melodic's nylon bottom housing provides a distinct deep and full sound, while the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Melodic and Outemu Phoenix hinges on personal preference for sound and typing experience. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housing for sharper sound profiles and RGB compatibility, the Melodic's nylon bottom housing offers a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains consistency with the top housing material, resulting in a more uniform sound character throughout key presses. Users looking for a switch with a mix of sharpness and depth in sound may lean towards the Melodic, while those seeking a consistent and clear sound profile may prefer the Phoenix.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, both switches have an actuation force of None grams, meaning that you can achieve keystrokes with minimal effort. However, the Melodic has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Phoenix has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Phoenix switch slightly heavier and provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches fall under the medium weight category, making them suitable for a variety of typing preferences. Whether you prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more tactile typing experience, both the Gateron Melodic and Outemu Phoenix switches offer unique advantages based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Melodic switch offers a slightly longer key travel experience compared to the Phoenix switch. The longer travel distance of the Melodic switch may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Phoenix switch could appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer their own unique feel, so the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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, providing a clean and sharp sound profile reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch also delivers a crunchy sound profile, but with a unique crystalline and sparkling feel. Both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience, with slight variations in the overall sound characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is praised for its buttery and invigorating typing sensation, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and reactive feel. In contrast, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as polished, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While both switches prioritize a comfortable typing experience, users may prefer the more pronounced feedback of the Melodic or the refined finish of the Phoenix based on personal preference.
Overall, both Gateron Melodic and Outemu Phoenix clicky switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer the high-pitched resonance and crunchy feel of the Melodic or the sparkling and polished sensation of the Phoenix, both switches promise a satisfying clicky typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, feedback, and overall typing feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, you should consider the specific qualities of each switch. If you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a smooth, buttery feel with a resonant and crunchy sound profile, the Gateron Melodic may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a more unique, polished feel with a crunchy sound profile, the Outemu Phoenix could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience.
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