Outemu Crystal vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal linear switch to the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it's important to consider the unique characteristics that set them apart. The Crystal offers a typing experience with a fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight, creating a linear sensation that is both distinct and satisfying. Additionally, the sound profile of the Crystal switch is neutral, making it ideal for those who prefer a quiet typing environment. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is designed specifically for office use, with a focus on providing a quiet but not entirely silent typing experience. These switches offer a light actuation and a subdued sound signature, perfect for professional settings where discreet typing is essential. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Mountain Top, we can see that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their respective top and bottom housings. The Crystal's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. In contrast, the Mountain Top's nylon top and bottom housings produce a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is a softer material that absorbs more sound. This results in a distinct typing experience for each switch, with the Crystal offering a more resonant sound and the Mountain Top providing a rounder sound.
Despite their differences, both the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Mountain Top utilize their housing materials to enhance the overall typing experience. The Crystal's polycarbonate top housing, known for its translucent appearance and sharp sound profile, is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Mountain Top's nylon top housing, with its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound, offers a classic typing feel. While the two switches offer contrasting sound profiles, they both capitalize on their housing materials to provide users with a unique and satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Mountain Top will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer distinct qualities based on their housing materials, with the Crystal's polycarbonate housing providing a sharper sound and the Mountain Top's nylon housing delivering a deeper sound. Whether you prefer the crispness of the Crystal or the fuller sound of the Mountain Top, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that is sure to enhance any keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is evident that the Crystal switch is slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. The Crystal switch requires 45 grams of force to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer typing sessions, the Mountain Top switch may be more suitable. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the slightly heavier Outemu Crystal switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is clear that the Crystal has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Mountain Top. The extra 0.6 mm of travel in the Crystal switch may provide a slightly deeper key press experience for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding key press feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique and distinctive chirpy sound with a high-pitched profile, providing an interesting acoustic experience while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and preferences. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, the sound produced by these switches can be further customized through choice of keycaps and keyboard housing.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is described as providing a polished typing experience, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction for a sleek feel. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is characterized as bouncy and easy-to-press, giving a spring-like feedback and gentle resistance for a comfortable typing feel. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through different tactile characteristics, catering to a variety of typing preferences and needs.
Overall, while the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offer different sound and feel qualities, both can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences. The Crystal switch stands out with its chirpy sound and polished feel, while the Mountain Top switch excels in providing a quiet and bouncy typing experience. Whether you prefer a more unique acoustic profile or a subtle and office-friendly sound, both switches offer options to cater to a wide range of typing styles. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, you should consider your typing environment and preferences. If you are looking for a unique linear typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Crystal switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and discreet typing experience with a light bottom out force that is suitable for office settings, the Gateron Mountain Top switch would be a better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific needs and preferences when it comes to sound, feel, and actuation force.
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