Gateron Melodic vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic and KTT Pine offer unique experiences for users. The Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that stands out for its reinvigorated clicky switch category, boasting smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems for a combination of classic clicky sound and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Pine is a linear switch known for its medium-heavy feel, buttery smooth key travel, and effortlessly typing experience. Both switches offer qualities such as smoothness and a satisfying typing experience, but each has its own distinct characteristics. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and KTT Pine switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, which both create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of the polycarbonate plastic contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Melodic's nylon bottom housing differs from the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound from polycarbonate.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials between the Gateron Melodic and KTT Pine switches, both have advantages that contribute to the overall typing experience. The split qualities of the bottom and top housings in a switch allow users to feel and hear the impact of each material. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, providing a different typing sensation. In contrast, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, adding variety to the auditory experience of typing on these switches.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Melodic and KTT Pine switches may ultimately come down to personal preferences in sound and feel. While both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, the Melodic's nylon bottom housing yields a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing. Understanding the impact of bottom and top housing materials on the typing experience can help users make an informed decision based on their desired sound and feel preferences.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Melodic has a lighter actuation force of None grams, meaning it is easier to trigger a keystroke compared to the Pine, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Melodic requiring 60 grams and the Pine needing 58 grams. This means that while the Melodic may be easier to type on initially, the typing experience may feel more substantial and satisfying on the Pine due to its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference for longer typing sessions or gaming.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of keypress feel. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when typing or gaming. Overall, both switches offer a consistent travel distance, allowing for a smooth and responsive typing experience. Users who prefer a shorter travel distance may prefer the Melodic clicky switch, while those who prefer a longer travel distance may lean towards the KTT Pine linear switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 is known for its resonant and crunchy characteristics, providing a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound, giving a deeper and richer tone during key presses. Both switches offer a unique auditory experience, with the Melodic focusing on a classic clicky sound and the Pine providing a smoother, more bass-heavy alternative. Depending on your preference for sound profiles, you can choose between the more traditional clicky feel of the Melodic or the bassy resonance of the Pine.
In terms of feel, both the Melodic and Pine switches are described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The Melodic switch is also noted for being invigorating, providing pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel for an immersive typing sensation. Additionally, the Pine switch is described as creamy, further emphasizing the smooth and buttery typing experience, akin to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys with each stroke. These descriptions suggest that both switches prioritize a comfortable and seamless typing experience, making them suitable options for users seeking a more refined tactile feel.
Overall, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities for users to consider. The Melodic's resonant and crunchy sound paired with an invigorating tactile feel caters to those who enjoy a classic clicky switch experience with added smoothness. On the other hand, the Pine's bassy sound and creamy feel provide a different typing experience, focusing on a smoother key travel and a richer sound profile. Regardless of your choice, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience, albeit with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that users can find a switch that aligns with their specific typing needs.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a resonant and crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating feel, the Melodic switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bassy and low-pitched sound with a buttery and creamy feel, the Pine switch could be more suited to your typing style. Additionally, take into account the slight differences in bottom out force between the two switches, with the Melodic at 60 grams and the Pine at 58 grams. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your individual preferences and typing experience.
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