Kailh BCP vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Kailh BCP and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh BCP and Gateron Mountain Top stand out as two appealing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience, each catering to different preferences and environments. The Kailh BCP switches are celebrated for their unique creamy, viscous, and bouncy tactile feel, which not only enhances the typing experience but also delivers a signature poppy and clacky sound profile that many users find satisfying. This makes them an excellent choice for gamers and typists looking for a lively feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switches focus on providing a discreet typing experience ideal for office settings; they combine a quiet sound signature with a comfortably light actuation, allowing for prolonged use without disturbing colleagues. This balance of performance and subtlety makes them suitable for professionals who value a serene workspace. 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
52g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 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
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-staged spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh BCP and Gateron Mountain Top switches present a fascinating comparison, particularly because both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This commonality in materials indicates that users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on these switches. Both models leverage the properties of nylon to create a sound profile characterized by deeper, fuller tones, a result of the plastic's softer nature. Since nylon effectively absorbs sound waves, it minimizes harsh acoustics, leading to a more muted and rounded sound that many typists find pleasing. Therefore, in terms of sound quality, BCP and Mountain Top switches should deliver a comparable experience.
However, it's essential to consider how the physical interaction with these switches might differentiate them despite their identical materials. While both switches will produce a similar sound profile owing to their nylon composition, the overall feel when bottoming out the switch may vary due to structural differences or design nuances inherent to each model. Although both housings are crafted from nylon, the effect of their designs can influence how the sound is perceived and the tactile sensations felt during typing. Thus, while the sound characteristics will likely be aligned, the experience of typing itself may take on distinct nuances directly attributable to how each switch has been engineered.
In conclusion, while the Kailh BCP and Gateron Mountain Top switches share the same housing materials—nylon in both top and bottom sections—there will still be some divergence in user experience for each switch caused by variations in design. Users will benefit from a generally soft and serene typing experience due to nylon's inherent qualities, but the particular intricacies of each switch's design will dictate whether one feels slightly more satisfying than the other. Hence, while sound and certain tactile elements will exhibit similarities, the overall experience of using these switches could differ based on their unique engineering characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The BCP switch has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, while the Mountain Top switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Mountain Top is noticeably lighter, making it easier for prolonged typing sessions, ideal for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. In contrast, the BCP’s heavier feel may appeal to users who appreciate a more substantial typing experience, as it provides a greater resistance that can enhance tactile feedback. When considering these switches for specific use cases, the BCP may be more suited for users favoring a firmer press, while the Mountain Top is better for those who prioritize ease of use during extended periods of typing or gaming.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, we find that the BCP has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Mountain Top offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that for users who lean towards a quicker responsiveness and prefer the snappier feel provided by shorter switches, the Mountain Top may be the more appealing option. However, for those who favor a bit more depth during key presses, the Kailh BCP, with its longer travel distance, might provide a more satisfying typing experience. In essence, while both switches cater to different preferences in tactile feedback, they serve the same purpose of ensuring a responsive keystroke for gamers and typists alike.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh BCP has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.75.
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 Kailh BCP switch stands out with its signature poppy and clacky profile, reminiscent of the classic Cherry switches but with a more amplified auditory feedback. This can create an engaging and somewhat lively atmosphere when typing, making it more expressive—an attractive feature for those who enjoy a more assertive sound during their typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switches are engineered for discretion, aiming to provide a quieter experience that is ideal for office environments. Their neutral sound signature ensures that while the typing is audible, it won't disrupt a professional setting. This makes them a better option for those who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback while still appreciating the tactile interactions of mechanical switches.
In terms of feel, the BCP offers a uniquely creamy and bouncy experience that enhances typing enjoyment with a visceral response. The elasticity in the switch adds a spring-like quality that can evoke a lively recognition with each key press, making for a fun and engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switches focus on ease-of-use, providing a bouncy and surprisingly responsive feel while still being gentle to the touch. This balance of light actuation combined with a subtle resistance allows users to type comfortably without fatigue, making it well-suited for extended periods of use. The combination of snappy and mild characteristics makes the Mountain Top approachable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced typists alike.
Overall, both switches present enjoyable qualities that cater to different preferences. The Kailh BCP excels in delivering a pronounced auditory experience with a unique tactile feel that appeals to those who revel in lively interactions. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switches focus on providing a quiet, comfortable typing experience that is perfect for office environments while still delivering a pleasant tactility. The choice between these two will largely depend on your priorities: if sound and a bouncy, expressive typing experience are key, the BCP is ideal; however, if you seek a quieter, more subtle experience that still maintains enjoyable feedback, the Mountain Top will serve you well. Either way, both switches offer quality craftsmanship tailored to their intended use-case, ensuring satisfying results tailored to the user's environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Kailh BCP linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it's crucial to consider your specific typing environment and personal preferences. If you appreciate a more substantial feel with a bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, the Kailh BCP will suit you well. Its poppy sound profile combined with a creamy, elastic feel provides an engaging typing experience that many enthusiasts enjoy, making it ideal for home use or for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere. Conversely, if you're working in an office or shared environment where discretion is key, the Gateron Mountain Top, with its lighter actuation force of 50 grams, would be the better choice. These switches excel in providing a quiet yet satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you can work continuously without disturbing others. If comfort and reduced finger fatigue are your priorities, the Mountain Top's bouncy and easy-to-press design enhances productivity during extended typing sessions. In essence, the BCP is for those who enjoy tactile engagement and sound, while the Mountain Top is tailored for professionalism and comfort.
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