Bsun Pine vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and Gateron Mountain Top switches offer distinct typing experiences for different preferences. The BSUN Pine switch is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and no-nonsense tactility. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is a linear switch designed for office environments, offering a quiet typing experience with a light actuation. While the Pine switch is best for those who crave a sharp and invigorating typing experience, the Mountain Top switch caters to those who prioritize a subtle and easy-to-press feel. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Gateron Mountain Top, we can see some key differences in terms of sound profile and feel. The Pine's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Mountain Top's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound because of its softer nature. This means that typing on the Pine switches may result in a crisper sound, while typing on the Mountain Top switches will likely elicit a more rounded sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Pine and the Mountain Top utilize nylon material. This means that typing on switches from either brand will result in a similar deep and full sound profile, as nylon is known for absorbing sound and creating a duller sound. The softness of nylon also contributes to a smoother typing experience overall, reducing any potential impact noise when the keys bottom out. Therefore, in terms of bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience from both the Pine and the Mountain Top switches.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Pine and the Gateron Mountain Top will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The Pine switches with their polycarbonate top housing will provide a sharper and crisper sound, whereas the Mountain Top switches with their nylon top housing will offer a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share the use of nylon in the bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience in terms of sound absorption and feel. Ultimately, users should consider their preferences for sound profile and typing experience when choosing between these two options.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch. The Pine requires 45 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Mountain Top only needs 40 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, resulting in a lighter typing experience. Some may prefer the lighter force of the Mountain Top for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may enjoy the more substantial feel of the Pine for a more pronounced typing experience. In both cases, the force requirements play a significant role in the overall feel and performance of the switch.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that users will get a consistent typing experience with either switch. The equal travel distance of both switches eliminates any potential preference based on the distance traveled, as they both offer the same keypress feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 Bsun Pine tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, resulting in a distinct and direct typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is designed to provide a quiet and subdued sound signature, making it ideal for professional environments where discretion is key. The Pine switch offers a more pronounced and audible typing experience, while the Mountain Top switch focuses on minimizing sound for a more unobtrusive typing feel.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Pine switch is characterized by its accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback, offering a tactile bump that is both strong and distinct with each keypress. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle, providing a more gentle and responsive typing experience with minimal resistance and a light actuation force. The Pine switch emphasizes a sharp and reactive feel, while the Mountain Top switch focuses on a comfortable and effortless typing experience.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offer contrasting typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch provides a sharp and direct typing feel with a pronounced tactile bump, resulting in a more audible typing experience. In contrast, the Mountain Top switch offers a quieter and more subtle typing feel, prioritizing comfort and discretion in professional settings. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with the Pine switch offering a more tactile and audible typing experience compared to the Mountain Top switch's emphasis on quiet and responsive typing.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, your choice should primarily be guided by your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a sharp tactile bump, quick bottom-out, and direct feedback, the Pine switch would be the ideal option for you. On the other hand, if you value a light actuation force, quiet typing experience, and a switch tailored for office settings, the Mountain Top switch would be more suitable. Consider the level of tactility and noise level you prefer, as well as whether you need a switch that is more invigorating or bouncy in feel. Both switches have their own unique strengths, so make sure to choose the one that aligns best with your typing habits and surroundings.
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