Gateron Melodic vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, it is essential to consider the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Melodic by Gateron stands out for its invigorating clicky sound and tactile feedback, thanks to advancements like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound, providing a unique blend of silence and tactility. The Melodic switch can be described as 'buttery', 'resonant', 'invigorating', and 'crunchy', while the Semi-Silent Linear switch is 'subdued', 'neutral', 'mild', 'snappy', 'buttery', and 'polished'. Each switch caters to different preferences, with the Melodic emphasizing a classic clicky experience and the Semi-Silent Linear offering a more subtle and refined typing feel. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Melodic and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a relatively stiff plastic, leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially suitable for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. This similarity in housing material ensures that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from both the Melodic and the Semi-Silent Linear when it comes to their top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gateron Melodic features a nylon bottom housing, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear also utilizes nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is characteristic of switches using nylon housing materials. The similarities in the bottom housing material of both switches allow users to experience the same deeper sound profile and typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Melodic and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear contribute to how the sound and feel of each switch is perceived by the user. While the top housing material primarily affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing material has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and typing experience when a key is pressed. These differences provide users with a unique typing experience based on the specific combination of housing materials used in each switch, whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate top housing or the softer nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Melodic clicky switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force. In terms of weight, the Melodic is lighter at the bottom out force compared to the Semi-Silent Linear. Some users may prefer the Melodic for longer typing durations or gaming sessions due to its lighter feel, while others may lean towards the Semi-Silent Linear for a stronger push feel. Overall, both switches provide a medium level of force, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Melodic switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch. In practical terms, this means that the Melodic switch will provide a slightly deeper feel when typing or gaming, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch will offer a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. Players who prioritize speed and quick response times may prefer the Semi-Silent Linear switch, while those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Melodic switch. Ultimately, the choice 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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 users with a high-pitched, clean sound profile and a satisfyingly crisp and crunchy auditory feedback reminiscent of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch presents a subdued and neutral sound profile, giving users a quieter typing experience with a dampened sound when pressed and a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. While the Melodic switch excels in delivering a distinct and immersive auditory experience, the Semi-Silent Linear switch focuses on providing a more subtle and versatile sound signature.
As for feel, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a buttery and invigorating typing sensation, providing users with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform, along with pronounced feedback and snappy feel for an engaging typing experience. Conversely, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch provides a mild and snappy typing experience that is gentle yet responsive, creating a approachable feel for most users with a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches boast a buttery smoothness in their keystroke experience, ensuring a seamless and refined typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Melodic switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound profile with a buttery and invigorating typing experience, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch presents a subdued and neutral sound profile with a mild and snappy typing sensation. Both switches excel in providing smooth and fluid keystrokes, making them suitable choices for users seeking different auditory and tactile feedback experiences. Depending on individual preferences, users can expect to achieve satisfying results with either switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Gateron Melodic if you prefer a resonant or crunchy sound profile, along with a buttery or invigorating typing feel. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback. On the other hand, opt for the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear if you prefer a subdued or neutral sound profile, along with a mild, snappy, buttery, or polished typing feel. This switch is suitable for a more quiet and smooth typing experience while still delivering a satisfying bottom-out sound. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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