Gateron Melodic vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, to the KTT Strawberry, a linear switch, users are presented with two distinct options for their mechanical keyboards. The Melodic stands out for its reinvigoration of the clicky switch category, offering a combination of classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. On the other hand, the Strawberry is known for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, thanks to its attractive pink and clear housings. While the Melodic is described as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy', the Strawberry is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the KTT Strawberry, it is clear that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Melodic stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing.
Although both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the choice of material for the bottom housing sets them apart. The Melodic's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, aligning with the characteristics of polycarbonate as a stiff plastic. This distinction in bottom housing material influences the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in a switch impacts the typing experience in unique ways. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the keystroke. In contrast, the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding the contributions of each housing material can help users make informed decisions based on their preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that the Melodic has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Strawberry's 43 grams. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Melodic at 60 grams and the Strawberry at 62 grams. This means that while the Melodic requires a lighter touch to initiate a keystroke, both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the force needed to fully press the key. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Melodic for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the slightly heavier actuation force of the Strawberry for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on individual typing style and comfort.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the keys need to travel to register a keystroke. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key travel, making it a matter of personal preference when deciding between the two switches. Overall, whether you choose the Gateron Melodic clicky switch or the KTT Strawberry linear switch, you can expect a consistent typing experience with the same travel distance.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch is renowned for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, providing a higher-pitched, sharp sound with an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch offers a low-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow tone, creating a more subdued sound compared to the Melodic. When it comes to feel, the Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth, fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and reactive feel. In contrast, the Strawberry switch is characterized as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing sensation with reduced friction and sleek key travel.
Considering the subjective qualities mentioned, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch offer distinct experiences in terms of both sound and feel. The Melodic switch caters to users seeking a clicky switch with a resonant and crunchy sound, paired with a buttery and invigorating feel. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch appeals to those looking for a linear switch with a low-pitched sound and a smooth, frictionless typing experience with a silky, buttery, and polished feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect to achieve satisfying results with either switch, tailored to their specific preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider the key factors of sound and feel. If you prefer a resonant and crunchy sound profile with a buttery and invigorating typing experience, the Melodic switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a low-pitched sound and enjoy a frictionless, silky, buttery, or polished feel when typing, the KTT Strawberry switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. So, trust your instincts and choose the switch that resonates with you the most.
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