Gateron Melodic vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Gateron Melodic and the HMX Twilight. The Melodic, a clicky switch, reinvigorates the classic clicky experience by incorporating recent advancements like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. This ensures that users can enjoy the invigorating, buttery clicky sound and tactile feedback without sacrificing smoothness. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight, a linear switch, distinguishes itself with an extended 3.85mm travel distance, delivering a quieter typing experience while still retaining the signature clacky characteristics found in HMX switches. If you prefer auditory feedback and a tactile sensation when typing, the Melodic might be the ideal choice for you. Conversely, if your focus is on a smoother, quieter typing experience that maintains some of that signature sound, the Twilight could be the perfect fit. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the HMX Twilight, a significant difference emerges in their top housing compositions. The Melodic utilizes polycarbonate, a plastic known for its rigidity and transparency, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This distinctive sound can add clarity to the overall typing experience, particularly advantageous for users who prioritize feedback while typing. Additionally, polycarbonate’s translucency enhances aesthetic appeal when paired with RGB lighting, allowing for a vibrant illumination that underscores the switch's visual effect. In contrast, the Twilight’s top housing is made of nylon, a classic switch material known for its softer texture, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent properties of nylon absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder acoustic quality that can be more pleasing for those who prefer a subdued auditory feedback while typing.
In examining the bottom housing of both switches, it is evident that they share a commonality, as both the Melodic and the Twilight employ nylon. This similarity means that both switches are likely to deliver a similar tactile feedback and bottom-out sound—characteristics that many enthusiasts value in their typing experience. The soft nature of nylon contributes to a dampened, more muted sound upon actuation, which appeals to users who favor a quieter keystroke compared to harder alternatives. Since the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the overall feel and sound when bottoming out, this shared material lends a consistent experience despite the differences found in the top housings.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials between the Gateron Melodic and the HMX Twilight create a unique auditory and tactile dichotomy. The crisper sound profile of the Melodic thanks to its polycarbonate top can be well-suited for users looking for clarity and responsiveness, while the Twilight's deeper sound, arising from its nylon top, caters to those who enjoy a fuller, more muted typing experience. However, the duo's nylon bottom housings ensure that while the switches may sound and feel different during actuation, they maintain a comparable foundation in terms of overall bottoming-out feedback. Users can, therefore, find both switches appealing based on their personal preferences, whether they lean toward an energetic and defined sound or a more reserved and smooth typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Melodic switch has an unspecified actuation force, but a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium, suggesting it provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Twilight switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a lower bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Twilight switch easier to press, making it more suitable for those who type for extended periods or prefer a lighter touch. While the actuation force of the Melodic remains unknown, the heavier bottom out force compared to the Twilight implies that it will likely require more effort, aligning with the preference of users looking for a firmer response. Overall, the Twilight switch is the lighter option, while the Melodic, with its higher bottom out force, caters to those who may favor a heavier, more tactile feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Twilight linear switch measures slightly shorter at 3.85 mm. This makes the Melodic the longer option, offering a more traditional depth that some users might find preferable for a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Twilight's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, as shorter distances can lead to faster actuation. While both switches accommodate different preferences—depth versus responsiveness—the Melodic provides a more pronounced feel with its additional 0.15 mm travel, making it a better choice for those who enjoy a hearty keystroke.
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 HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 sound profile of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is characterized by its resonant and crunchy qualities. Users can anticipate a higher-pitched, immersive auditory experience when typing, marked by a clean and sharp sound that's both satisfying and nostalgic. The crunchy aspect adds a delightful essence, reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, enhancing the overall auditory engagement. In contrast, while the HMX Twilight linear switch is described as having a quieter sound due to its extended travel distance, it lacks specific descriptors to clarify its overall auditory quality. Nevertheless, the Twilight is still expected to maintain some of the clacky characteristics commonly associated with linear switches, making it suitable for those who prefer a more subdued sound environment.
When it comes to the tactile feel during use, the Melodic switch offers a distinctive experience marked by its buttery and invigorating qualities. The buttery description indicates that the keystrokes are smooth and fluid, providing a seamless typing sensation that minimizes hand fatigue during extended use. Additionally, the invigorating nature of the Melodic switch enhances engagement, delivering pronounced feedback with a snappy and reactive response. This makes it particularly stimulating for typists and gamers alike. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX Twilight switch is still unknown, as it lacks descriptive qualities that would help gauge the typing experience in comparison to the Melodic.
In summary, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch excels in sound and feel with its resonant, crunchy auditory profile and smooth, engaging tactile feedback, making it a standout option for users who appreciate a classic clicky experience. In contrast, while the HMX Twilight linear switch promises a quieter operation, its subjective qualities in sound and feel are less defined. Consequently, those opting for the Melodic can expect a distinct and rich typing experience, while the Twilight may cater to users who prefer a more muted keystroke without defined attributes available for a full comparison.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and intended usage. If you enjoy the nostalgia and engagement of a classic clicky switch paired with pronounced tactile feedback, then the Melodic is an excellent choice for you. The resonant and crunchy sound profile, along with its medium actuation force of 60 grams, can make your typing experience feel both invigorating and satisfying, particularly for typing enthusiasts and gamers who thrive on auditory and tactile stimulation. On the other hand, if you're looking for a smoother and quieter typing experience, the HMX Twilight would be more suitable. With its lighter actuation force of 50 grams and an extended travel distance, this switch is perfect for long typing sessions or for activities that require rapid key presses, such as gaming, where quieter operation might be essential. Ultimately, consider what aspects are most important to you—whether it’s the soul-stirring click of the Melodic or the buttery smoothness of the Twilight—and choose accordingly.
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