Gateron Glory Red vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Red and the Gateron Mountain Top offer two distinct options tailored to different user preferences and environments. The Glory Red switch stands out for its smooth keystroke and pleasing travel distance, making it an excellent choice for typists who value a light touch and a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch is specifically designed for office settings, where discretion is paramount; it delivers a quiet yet responsive keystroke, striking a balance between a mild sound signature and a comfortably light actuation. While the Glory Red is ideal for those who seek a more tactile release during high-speed typing sessions, the Mountain Top appeals to professionals who require a subtle yet effective switch for prolonged hours of work. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Glory Red and Gateron Mountain Top both feature nylon top and bottom housings, highlighting a shared reliance on this classic material. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which effectively absorb sound and contribute to a deeper, more resonant audible feedback when keys are pressed. Because both switches utilize the same nylon material in their housings, users can expect a similar sound profile characterized by a duller and rounder tone. This characteristic makes both switches ideal for those who prefer a typing experience that minimizes harsh or high-pitched sounds, creating a more pleasant acoustic environment.
While the use of nylon in both the Gateron Glory Red and Mountain Top ensures a consistent sound experience, the overall feel of the switches may still vary slightly due to their distinct mechanical designs. The nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in the tactile feedback during each keypress, as it impacts the bottom-out sound and feel more significantly than the top housing. However, since both switches feature nylon throughout, the tactile sensations might converge, offering a notably smooth keystroke that encourages a seamless typing experience. Additionally, the combination of top and bottom housings working together ensures that characteristics such as actuation firmness and overall responsiveness remain consistent between the two switch models.
Overall, the Gateron Glory Red and Mountain Top demonstrate a thorough integration of nylon in both their top and bottom housing designs, yielding similar results in terms of sound and feel. Users will find that both switches deliver a comparable acoustic quality, enhancing user satisfaction for those who value a quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the similarities in housing materials effectively bridge the two models, allowing for a cohesive typing experience where the natural qualities of nylon remain at the forefront.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force for the Glory Red remains unavailable. The Glory Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, which makes it heavier than the Mountain Top's actuation force of 40 grams. This indicates that the Mountain Top switch is lighter and may be more suitable for users who prefer longer typing sessions or lighter key presses. In contrast, the additional bottom out force of the Mountain Top at 50 grams suggests that it offers a firmer push when fully depressed, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Since the bottom out force for the Glory Red is unknown, we cannot make a direct comparison in that regard. Overall, users who prioritize a lighter touch may prefer the Mountain Top switch, while those seeking a stronger, more tactile feel might lean towards the Glory Red.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, the Glory Red features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Mountain Top has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Mountain Top the more responsive choice for gamers looking for quicker actuation times, whereas the Glory Red offers a deeper feel that may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress. For users who prioritize speed, the Mountain Top's shorter distance may be more suitable; however, those who enjoy the tactile experience of a longer travel distance may find the Glory Red more pleasing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to individual preference regarding depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Glory Red switch is known for its smooth and unobtrusive sound profile, which enhances the typing experience without being overly distracting. While the specific sound characteristics may vary based on board and keycap choices, Glory Red's design keeps it relatively mild and pleasant for both casual and prolonged use. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is engineered with discretion in mind, ideal for office environments where noise control is essential. While it offers a quiet typing experience, it is not entirely silent, providing a balanced, subdued sound signature that is suitable for various settings. This makes the Mountain Top ideal for users looking to maintain a quieter atmosphere without sacrificing the tactile feedback.
Regarding feel, the Gateron Glory Red switch is characterized by its smooth keystroke and pleasant travel distance, allowing for an enjoyable and seamless typing experience. It is designed to provide a light actuation force, ensuring that typing remains comfortable and responsive throughout extended usage. In contrast, the Mountain Top switch is celebrated for its bouncy feel, offering a spring-like rebound sensation with every keystroke. Its easy-to-press nature translates to minimal resistance, making it a user-friendly option that reduces finger fatigue. This switch is also described as mild, snappy, and subtle, suggesting that it delivers a well-rounded experience that emphasizes both lightness and responsiveness, perfect for users in shared spaces.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Glory Red and Mountain Top switches offer distinct advantages tailored to different environments and preferences. The Glory Red excels in providing a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, making it suitable for both home and light office use, while the Mountain Top caters specifically to users needing a quieter typing solution without compromising on feel. If you're choosing between these switches, you can expect a generally pleasant typing experience from both, but your decision may ultimately hinge on whether you prioritize sound discretion or a lush, smooth action in your keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Glory Red and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switches ultimately depends on your specific needs and typing preferences. If you’re seeking a smooth, effortless typing experience without much resistance, you may find the Glory Red's ultra-light actuation force to be ideal, especially if you enjoy a more leisurely typing style or gaming where rapid key presses are advantageous. However, be mindful that this switch may not provide the subtle feedback that some users prefer. Conversely, if you're planning to use your keyboard in a shared or office environment, the Gateron Mountain Top is a fantastic choice, as it strikes a balance between a satisfying light actuation force and a muted sound profile. This makes it excellent for continuous, unobtrusive typing, while the bouncy and easy-to-press feel ensures comfort during long work sessions. In essence, the Glory Red is perfect for those prioritizing a smooth and quick keystroke experience, while the Mountain Top is suited for a quiet yet responsive typing environment, catering to both personal preferences and professional needs.
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