HMX Gravel vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between options that cater to different preferences and environments. The HMX Gravel switches stand out for their exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, featuring a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side, making them a top choice for those who seek a responsive and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switches are engineered specifically for office environments, designed to offer a quiet, yet not entirely silent, typing experience that balances subtle sound with a comfortably light actuation. While the Gravel excels in providing a satisfying and smooth tactile experience ideal for heavy typists and gamers, the Mountain Top shines in professional settings where discretion is key. Each switch brings unique advantages to the table—whether it's the Gravel's purely smooth typing or the Mountain Top's subdued approach perfect for shared workspaces. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Gravel and Gateron Mountain Top switches, it is evident that the materials used for their top housings significantly differentiate them. The Gravel employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer structure which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This choice not only enhances the clarity and resonance when typing but also provides an aesthetic advantage, especially under RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Mountain Top relies on a nylon top housing, a material celebrated for its softer composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both switches demonstrate quality in their compositions, the different effects of the top housing materials could lead to contrasting auditory experiences.
Conversely, when we examine the bottom housings of both the Gravel and Mountain Top switches, we find them sharing the same material: nylon. This consistency means that both switches will elicit a similar sound experience when it comes to the fundamental qualities imparted by the bottom housing. The nylon composition leads to a duller and rounder sound, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when a key is pressed down. Because both switches utilize nylon for this critical component, they will resonate similarly in terms of sound dampening and bottom-out feel, despite the differences seen in the top housings.
In summary, when utilizing the HMX Gravel and the Gateron Mountain Top switches, users will find that the top housing materials create distinct auditory experiences, with polycarbonate delivering a sharper sound and nylon providing a deeper tone. However, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent base level of sound and tactile feedback across both options. This blend of materials will still lead to **similar results** in overall typing feel and sound profile when pressing down the keys, highlighting how each housing material’s unique characteristics can affect different aspects of the typing experience. Thus, while the switches differ in their upper housing, their mutual reliance on nylon in the bottom housing contributes a unified element to their performance.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, both exhibit light actuation and bottom out forces, but there are notable differences between them. The Gravel has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Mountain Top is slightly lighter at 40 grams. Both switches feature the same bottom out force of 50 grams, making them equal in that regard. This means that users can expect a similar bottoming out experience with both switches. However, the Mountain Top's lighter actuation force may appeal to those who prioritize a more effortless keystroke, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming. Conversely, the Gravel's slightly heavier actuation force may provide a more substantial feel for users who prefer a firmer typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding tactile feedback and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Gravel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch measures 3.4 mm in travel distance. This comparison reveals that the Gravel switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, contributing to a more pronounced keystroke depth that some users may favor for a more tactile experience. In contrast, the Mountain Top switch, with its shorter travel distance, is better suited for those seeking quicker, more responsive keystrokes typically preferred by gamers. While both switches fall within the realm of modern shorter travel distances, the Gravel's 3.5 mm measurement provides a more substantial feel compared to the Mountain Top's 3.4 mm, which could be perceived as more abrupt for users who prefer a deeper keystroke. Therefore, if you're aiming for a deeper, more resonant typing experience, the HMX Gravel switch would be the preferred choice, while those prioritizing speed may lean towards the Gateron Mountain Top.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 considering the sound profile of the switches, the HMX Gravel switch is noted for its exceptional smoothness, which often results in a quieter typing experience compared to more traditional switches. While specific details about its sound signature are not provided, it is generally understood that linear switches like Gravel produce minimal noise during operation. In comparison, the Gateron Mountain Top switch was designed specifically for office environments, offering a neutral sound profile that is subdued yet not entirely silent. This balance makes it a practical choice for professional settings, where a quieter switch is appreciated without completely sacrificing typing feedback.
In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel switch is celebrated for its smooth and refined typing experience, characterized by a medium-light actuation force that enhances the overall responsiveness. This allows for an effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended usage. Conversely, the Gateron Mountain Top switch boasts a more dynamic range of tactile feedback qualities, incorporating bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle characteristics. These features collectively contribute to a spirited typing experience, providing satisfying rebound and gentle resistance that makes it comfortable to type on for long periods.
In conclusion, both the HMX Gravel and Gateron Mountain Top linear switches offer distinct qualities suited for different typing environments. The Gravel emphasizes a refined and smooth typing sensation, while the Mountain Top provides a versatile feel with a focus on ease of use and a neutral sound, perfect for the workplace. While the Gravel may tend toward a quieter sound profile, the Mountain Top’s designed neutrality ensures a pleasant typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to the needs of users who seek comfort, responsiveness, and a touch of discretion in their typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you value an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience that's responsive and effortless, the Gravel switch is a perfect match. Its light actuation force makes it ideal for prolonged typing sessions, ensuring comfort without compromising on performance. On the other hand, if you work in an office or shared environment where noise is a concern, the Mountain Top switch is engineered precisely for that scenario. Offering a subdued sound profile and bouncy feel, it strikes a balance between discretion and a satisfying typing experience, making it great for maintaining productivity without disturbing those around you. Consider where and how often you’ll be typing to guide your decision; for personal projects or gaming, the Gravel’s smoothness will enhance enjoyment, whereas for professional settings, the Mountain Top’s calm demeanor will support an unobtrusive workflow.
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