Gateron Melodic vs. Gateron Smoothie

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the exciting click of a traditional switch and the silky smoothness of linear switches. The Gateron Melodic offers a delightful clicky experience, reinvigorating the classic category with advancements such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, delivering that satisfying tactile feedback synonymous with clicky switches while minimizing drag. Characterized by descriptors like 'Buttery' and 'Crunchy,' this switch can be perfect for users who enjoy auditory feedback and seek a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out with its all-POM construction, claiming an impressive thocky sound signature and extraordinary smoothness that makes each keystroke feel effortless. With a lightweight touch and descriptors such as 'Silky' and 'Low-pitched,' this linear switch caters to those who prefer a quieter, more fluid typing experience without any tactile interruption. Both switches have their unique appeals depending on your typing style and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Melodic Clicky

Gateron Smoothie Linear

$6.50

$6.00 per 10

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Gateron Smoothie, one immediately notices a distinction in the composition and sound profile between the two. The Melodic features a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffer structure. This rigidity contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is both clear and resonant. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for excellent RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking both aesthetic appeal and auditory clarity. On the other hand, the Smoothie employs a POM top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper, more muted sound. This unique sound profile offers a distinct auditory experience that contrasts with the brighter character of the Melodic's polycarbonate housing.

When examining the bottom housings of both switches, a similar divergence arises. The Melodic utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is renowned for its softer texture. The nylon material absorbs sound, resulting in a fuller and deeper auditory profile that tends to be rounded and less sharp than its polycarbonate counterpart. In contrast, the Smoothie's bottom housing is also made from POM, which further emphasizes its unique sound characteristics. Like nylon, POM contributes to a deeper and more muted sound, although its properties may produce a subtly different feel compared to nylon, given the inherent tactile differences between the two materials. This means that while both switches share certain sound profile traits, the distinct materials result in a varied auditory experience owing to their individual absorption and resonance qualities.

Ultimately, the interplay between the top and bottom housings plays a crucial role in determining the overall performance of the switches. The Melodic's combination of polycarbonate and nylon ensures that the sharper top housing sound complements the deeper, fuller bottom housing audio, creating a balanced yet dynamic typing experience. In contrast, the Smoothie's all-POM construction lends itself to a consistent sound profile that is rewarding in its own right but leans towards a more muted typing experience. Despite these differences, users can expect that both switches offer satisfying auditory feedback and tactile sensations, albeit through different pathways. As such, enthusiasts may appreciate the nuances of each switch while recognizing that both present a unique approach to achieving an engaging keyboard experience.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom-out forces. The Melodic switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom-out force of 60 grams, classified as medium, which suggests that once fully pressed, it provides a substantial feel. In contrast, the Smoothie switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes without requiring as much pressure. However, its bottom-out force remains unknown. Consequently, this indicates that while the Melodic may deliver a heavier and more tactile experience upon bottoming out, the Smoothie allows for a smoother, lighter typing experience which may be preferable for extended use. Therefore, if you're seeking a switch that requires more effort for a firmer feel, the Melodic could be the better option, whereas the Smoothie provides a more accessible force for those who favor lighter keystrokes.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is clear that the Melodic has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Smoothie measures 3.6 mm, categorizing it as the shorter switch. The difference in travel distance can impact the overall typing experience significantly. The Melodic’s longer travel allows for a more pronounced tactile feel, which some users may find satisfying and conducive to a more deliberate typing style. Conversely, the Smoothie’s shorter travel distance aligns with the preferences of gamers or those who favor quicker response times, providing a snappier action that may feel more efficient for fast-paced tasks. Therefore, users seeking a hearty depth in their keystrokes may gravitate towards the Gateron Melodic, while those looking for responsiveness and speed may prefer the Gateron Smoothie.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch stands out with its resonant and crunchy auditory qualities. Users can expect a vibrant, higher-pitched sound profile that is both clean and sharp, reminiscent of the satisfying 'click' often associated with classic clicky switches. This makes each keystroke feel lively and engaging. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky sound signature characterized by a deeper and softer tone. This low-pitched quality creates a rich and satisfying auditory experience, leaning towards a more subdued, bass-heavy feel. The Smoothie’s sound can be likened to a soft thud, which is distinctively different from the clicky sound of the Melodic. Ultimately, while the Melodic provides an immersive clicky experience, the Smoothie delivers a deep, subtle sound, offering typists different auditory pleasures.

In terms of feel, both switches exhibit a buttery smoothness, providing a seamless and fluid keystroke experience. However, the Melodic takes it a step further with an invigorating profile that delivers pronounced feedback and a snappy response, contributing to a truly immersive typing sensation. The moderate to firm actuation force makes the typing experience engaging and reactive. On the other hand, the Smoothie prides itself on offering a creamy and silky tactile sensation, bringing a luxurious feel to each keystroke. The combination of buttery and silky properties ensures that the Smoothie feels exceptionally smooth and minimizes any resistance, allowing for effortless typing. Thus, while both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, the Melodic leans into feedback and actuation force, whereas the Smoothie emphasizes pure, silky smoothness.

In summary, when choosing between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, one must consider the auditory and tactile experiences each offers. The Melodic excels with its resonant, crunchy sound and invigorating feedback, making it ideal for users who enjoy a pronounced click and reactive typing experience. In contrast, the Smoothie impresses with its thocky sound and creamy, silky feel, suitable for those who prefer a deeper sound and a seamless typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you favor the lively clicky response or the smooth, rich typing grace that the Smoothie provides.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch ultimately hinges on the typing experience and sound profile you desire. If you find joy in the nostalgic, resonant clicks reminiscent of classic typewriters while appreciating a smooth keystroke due to modern manufacturing advancements, then the Melodic is your ideal companion. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams provides a satisfying feedback that many typists crave, along with a crunchy, invigorating feel that makes typing feel engaging and lively. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter, more subdued typing experience that still delivers a rich sound, the Smoothie's buttery sensation and thocky sound profile will likely appeal to you. Its lightweight touch allows for effortless typing, making it suitable for long hours at the keyboard without fatigue. In essence, select the Melodic for an engaging, clicky experience or the Smoothie for an ultra-smooth, low-key vibe. Understanding your personal preferences will guide you to the right switch for your mechanical keyboard adventure.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Melodic Clicky

$6.50

$6.00 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Smoothie Linear

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn more