KTT Cream Yellow vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Mountain Top mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that they offer unique features tailored to different preferences. The Cream Yellow switch is revered for its distinctive clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more audible and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is designed for discreet typing in office environments, offering a quiet yet light actuation for uninterrupted work. While the Cream Yellow is characterized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Mountain Top switch is labeled as 'Bouncy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Snappy', and 'Subtle'. 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
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Gateron Mountain Top, one key difference is the material used for the top housing. The Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. On the other hand, the Mountain Top utilizes a nylon top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon. This contrast in sound profiles shows how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
Another point of comparison is the material used for the bottom housing of these switches. Both the Cream Yellow and the Mountain Top employ nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material showcases how certain materials can provide consistency in sound quality across different switches.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Cream Yellow and the Mountain Top, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Cream Yellow's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, the Mountain Top's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a consistent sound profile that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is evident that the Mountain Top is the lighter option. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium. In contrast, the Mountain Top offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Mountain Top switch, as it requires less force to register a keystroke. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Cream Yellow switch, which offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Both switches provide a different typing feel, catering to the preferences of users who prioritize actuation and bottom out forces in their keyboard switches.
Travel distance
The KTT Cream Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may lean towards the Cream Yellow switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a bit more depth in their keypresses may find the Mountain Top switch more satisfying due to its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, while the Cream Yellow switch is slightly shorter than the Mountain Top switch, both offer relatively similar experiences when it comes to travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 Cream Yellow switch offers a distinctively clacky experience, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch leans towards a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments, especially in office settings where discretion is valued. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, catering to different preferences and needs.
In terms of feel, both the Cream Yellow and Mountain Top switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that adds liveliness to typing. The Cream Yellow switch is noted for its uniquely bouncy typing feel, while the Mountain Top switch offers a combination of easy-to-press keys with a mild and subtle typing experience. Additionally, the Mountain Top switch is highlighted for its snappy and responsive feel, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and engaging typing feel, each with its own unique touch.
Considering the sound and feel qualities of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it's evident that they each have their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The Cream Yellow switch excels in providing a clacky sound and bouncy feel, creating a resonant and lively typing experience. In contrast, the Mountain Top switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, coupled with a bouncy and easy-to-press feel that is ideal for office environments. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with a pronounced bounce or a quieter typing experience with gentle resistance, both switches offer quality options that can enhance your overall typing satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between the Cream Yellow and Mountain Top switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that you can achieve a satisfying typing experience no matter which option you choose.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cream Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, you should choose the Cream Yellow if you prioritize a distinctively clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel and medium bottom out force. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience with a unique auditory feedback. On the other hand, opt for the Gateron Mountain Top if you prefer a quieter and lighter touch typing experience, designed specifically for office environments where discretion is key. The Mountain Top switch offers a smooth and easy-to-press feel with a light bottom out force. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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