Gateron Melodic vs. Durock White Lotus

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, and the Durock White Lotus, a tactile switch. The Gateron Melodic stands out for its reinvigoration of the clicky switch category, offering a smooth and satisfying typing experience with its classic clicky sound and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus is praised for its delicate tactility and light touch, making it perfect for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. If you prefer a more pronounced clicky sound and tactile feel, the Gateron Melodic may be the right choice for you. However, if you value a gentle and quiet typing experience with the option for vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Durock White Lotus could be the better fit. 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

Durock White Lotus Tactile

$6.50

$6.00 per 10

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Melodic and Durock White Lotus switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the lighting to shine through. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch boasts a unique modified PC & UPE Blend top housing that provides a premium feel. While both switches may have a similar appearance with their clear top housing, the choice between the two would come down to the specific sound profile and feel desired by the user.

In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Melodic and White Lotus switches use nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Its softer nature allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. With both switches using nylon bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Whether it be the Melodic or White Lotus, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a satisfying and responsive typing experience.

When it comes to the overall impact of the housing materials on the switch, the qualities of each material will be split between the top and bottom housing. The bottom housing will have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will impact the sound when a key is released. Both the Gateron Melodic and Durock White Lotus switches offer a unique combination of housing materials that contribute to their individual sound profiles and typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.

Weight

In comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Melodic switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it difficult to determine the exact pressure required. However, its bottom out force is 60 grams, which is considered medium in weight. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch has an actuation force of 46 grams, slightly lighter than the Melodic switch, and a bottom out force of 56 grams, which is also medium but leans towards the lighter side compared to the Melodic switch.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the White Lotus switch may be the better option as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the contrary, the Melodic switch would appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel, as it requires a slightly higher bottom out force, which can provide a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing these two switches, it is clear that they both provide a consistent travel distance, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. The 4mm travel distance ensures that the keys feel responsive and provide comfortable feedback when pressed. Whether you choose the Melodic or White Lotus switch, you can expect to get a consistent and satisfying typing experience with a travel distance that remains the same.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Melodic switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, with a higher-pitched clean sound profile that immerses users in each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that suits a variety of users and environments. Depending on your preference for sound, you can achieve different auditory experiences with these switches, although both are sure to provide an enjoyable typing sound.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Melodic switch offers a buttery and invigorating typing sensation, with a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that provides seamless and uniform feedback. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus switch provides an easy-to-press, mild, and subtle typing feel, offering gentle resistance and low impact for effortless and comfortable typing sessions. Both switches cater to different preferences in key press resistance and typing feel, ensuring that users can find the ideal switch for their typing needs.

Overall, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on whether you prefer a higher-pitched, crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating feel, or a low-pitched, neutral sound with an easy-to-press, mild, and subtle typing experience, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing preferences. Additionally, considering factors such as keyboard and keycap choices can further enhance your typing experience with these switches. Ultimately, both switches provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences that cater to different typing styles and preferences.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a classic clicky sound with smoothness and pronounced feedback, the Gateron Melodic may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile typing experience with a delicate balance of tactility and RGB lighting effects, the Durock White Lotus could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound and feel that best enhances your typing experience, whether it's the resonant and invigorating qualities of the Melodic or the low-pitched and easy-to-press characteristics of the White Lotus. Choose wisely to optimize your keyboard setup for a personalized and enjoyable typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Melodic Clicky

$6.50

$6.00 per 10

Learn more

Durock White Lotus Tactile

$5.60

$4.57 per 10

Learn more