Gateron Melodic vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, with the TTC Silent Red, a linear switch, one can see distinct differences between the two. The Melodic from Gateron offers a unique experience with its clicky sound and tactile feedback, thanks to features like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch from TTC provides a quiet and smooth typing experience ideal for shared spaces or office environments. Both switches are categorized as 'Buttery,' but while the Melodic is described as 'Resonant,' 'Invigorating,' and 'Crunchy,' the Silent Red is labeled as 'Mild,' 'Muted,' and 'Polished.' 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Melodic and TTC Silent Red switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, despite both switches using polycarbonate for their top housings, the overall sound profile may differ slightly due to other factors such as the stem and spring design.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Melodic and Silent Red switches utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches share this characteristic in their bottom housings, the overall typing experience may feel slightly different due to other factors such as the switch's actuation force or tactile feedback.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for the Gateron Melodic and TTC Silent Red switches has a significant impact on the sound and feel of the switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and resonant sound, the use of nylon in the bottom housings creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The differences in housing materials, as well as other factors such as stem and spring design, contribute to the overall typing experience and may appeal to different preferences in mechanical keyboard users.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer a medium actuation force. The Gateron Melodic switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the TTC Silent Red switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making the Silent Red slightly heavier in this aspect. The actuation force of the Melodic switch is not specified, whereas the Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams. The Melodic switch may provide a lighter typing experience due to the lack of actuation force information, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Silent Red switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Gateron Melodic has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Silent Red. The Melodic's 4 mm distance offers a bit more depth when pressing down on the key, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Silent Red's 3.7 mm travel distance allows for a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize speed. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight difference in length may impact the overall feel and user experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and whether you prioritize depth or speed in your typing or gaming experience.
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 TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 experience, providing a higher-pitched and clean sound profile that is immersive and satisfying. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch provides a muted sound that is softer and quieter, making it a great choice for environments where noise needs to be minimized. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Melodic being more resonant and crunchy, while the Silent Red is muted and gentle.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Melodic and TTC Silent Red switches are described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. The Melodic switch is also described as invigorating, providing pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. The Silent Red switch, on the other hand, is further described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience and a smooth, refined finish that reduces friction and provides smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and TTC Silent Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Melodic switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound with an invigorating feel, while the Silent Red switch offers a muted sound with a mild and polished feel. Depending on personal preference and the environment in which the keyboard will be used, users can choose between these two switches to achieve the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, consider your priorities for sound and feel. If you prefer a resonant and crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating feel, the Melodic switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a muted sound with a buttery, mild, and polished feel, the Silent Red switch is the better choice. Ultimately, your personal preference for sound and feel will dictate which switch is the best fit for your typing style and environment. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns more closely with your preferences.
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