Gateron Beer vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and Mountain Top offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Beer switch stands out with its translucent green design reminiscent of a Tsingtao beer bottle, providing a light and tactile typing experience with a distinctive clacky sound. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch from Gateron is tailored for office environments, offering a quiet yet comfortably light typing experience for discreet and continuous use. While the Beer switch is characterized as 'Clacky' and 'Stepped', the Mountain Top switch is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Subtle'. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. 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
38g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Mountain Top, it is clear that the Beer utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, while the Mountain Top uses nylon for both. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making the Beer switch more crisp in sound compared to the Mountain Top's nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound for the Mountain Top.
The difference in housing materials between the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Mountain Top not only affects the sound profile of the switches but also impacts the overall typing experience. With polycarbonate used for both the top and bottom housing of the Beer, users can expect a more consistent and sharp sound when pressing down and releasing keys. In contrast, the Mountain Top's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing but may lack the sharpness and clarity that polycarbonate provides. The choice between these two housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Mountain Top, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the qualities of their respective materials. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Beer or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon in the Mountain Top, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience. In the end, it is important to consider how the housing material of a switch will impact sound, feel, and aesthetics to choose the option that best suits your preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, we find that both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams, while the Mountain Top linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams. In terms of weight, the Beer switch is lighter overall, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch offers a slightly stronger push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier force. Ultimately, the differences in actuation force between the two switches may result in a slightly different typing experience, but both switches offer similar bottom out force, ensuring consistent results in that aspect.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that both switches require the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom when pressed. As a result, users can expect a similar tactile experience and key response from both switches. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, providing consistent typing feedback regardless of the switch chosen.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
The Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00 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 Beer tactile switch is known for producing a sharp and snappy clacky sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, which is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user in various environments. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so keep that in mind when choosing between these two switches.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is easy-to-press and offers a gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. With a stepped tactility, these switches provide a more subtle feel compared to other tactile switches, enhancing the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch boasts a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, with a mild and snappy typing experience that is gentle yet responsive. The switch also offers a subtle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Beer switch provides a clacky sound with a stepped tactility that offers a light and responsive typing experience, while the Mountain Top switch offers a more neutral sound with a bouncy and subtle typing feel suitable for office environments. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch as they cater to different preferences and typing styles. Choose the one that best suits your typing needs and enjoy the enhanced typing experience they offer.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a lighter actuation force and a unique tactile experience, the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be a great choice. With its easy-to-press feel and distinct clacky sound signature, it offers a refreshing typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and subtle typing experience, especially in professional settings, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch would be more suitable. Its bouncy and easy-to-press feel combined with a neutral sound profile make it a great option for uninterrupted typing. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preferences for actuation force, tactile feedback, and sound profile. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences and environments.
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