Gateron Melodic vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic and KTT Wine Red offer distinct experiences for users to choose from. The Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that features smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing users with a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback while maintaining smoothness. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red is a linear switch that offers a pillowy light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile when typing. While the Melodic is described as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy', the Wine Red is characterized as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched'. Each switch has its unique qualities that may appeal 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
44g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the KTT Wine Red, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for a more clear and resonant sound, particularly beneficial if RGB lighting is used. However, the Melodic switch differs in its bottom housing material, which is made of nylon. This choice of material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, the top housing of both the Gateron Melodic and the KTT Wine Red plays a significant role in their overall sound profile. The polycarbonate top housings create a sharp and crisp sound when typing, which is further enhanced by the clear translucency of the material. This makes them ideal for users who prioritize a distinctive audible experience while typing on their keyboards. While the Melodic's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound, the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a higher-pitched sound, showcasing how variations in housing materials can impact the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a keyboard switch can greatly influence its sound profile and typing feel. The Gateron Melodic and the KTT Wine Red showcase how variations in top and bottom housing materials can lead to different sound characteristics. By utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing, both switches produce a sharp and clear sound, but the Melodic's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper tone compared to the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles can help keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their preferred typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are some clear differences. The Melodic switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes compared to the Wine Red switch which has an actuation force of 44 grams. On the other hand, the Melodic switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, slightly heavier than the Wine Red switch which bottoms out at 55 grams. Both switches fall under the medium weight category, but the Wine Red is slightly lighter overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods, the Wine Red switch may be more suitable. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing, the Melodic switch could provide a better typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When typing on either switch, you can expect to feel the same amount of keypress travel from top to bottom. This means that whether you choose the Melodic clicky switch or the Wine Red linear switch, you'll get a similar typing experience in terms of keypress depth. Both switches offer a consistent and uniform travel distance, ensuring a smooth and satisfying typing 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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy experience, providing a higher-pitched and clean sound profile with a satisfyingly crisp feel reminiscent of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch presents a bassy and low-pitched sound, delivering a deep and rich tone during key presses. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Melodic focusing on a sharp and immersive clicky sound, while the Wine Red emphasizes a smooth and pillowy type feel.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as buttery and invigorating, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. This switch provides a seamless and uniform typing sensation that is both satisfying and immersive. Unfortunately, specific descriptors of the feel of the KTT Wine Red linear switch are unknown. However, based on the information available for the Wine Red, users can expect a pillowy light type feel while typing on them, potentially offering a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and KTT Wine Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel. The Melodic excels in providing a resonant and crunchy sound profile along with a buttery and invigorating feel, appealing to those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with a classic clicky sound. On the other hand, the Wine Red focuses on a bassy and low-pitched sound, providing a rich and deep tone during key presses, paired with a potentially comfortable and pillowy light typing feel. Depending on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, both switches offer unique characteristics that can cater to a wide range of users.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a resonant and crunchy sound profile with a buttery and invigorating typing sensation, then the Melodic switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bassy and low-pitched sound with a pillowy light type feel, then the Wine Red switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing experiences, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
