KTT Lightning vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Mountain Top, both linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The Lightning is well-known for its speed and precision, making it an ideal choice for gamers looking to gain an edge with quick response times. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch is designed for office environments, offering a quiet and comfortable typing experience suited for professional settings. While the Lightning provides a slick feel and clacky sound profile, the Mountain Top switch boasts a subdued sound signature and light actuation. 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
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Nylon
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 KTT Lightning and the Gateron Mountain Top, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Mountain Top utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This difference in top housing material leads to a distinct difference in sound and feel when typing on the switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches use nylon. This choice of material for the bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material means that the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be consistent between the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Mountain Top. Therefore, while the top housings may give each switch its unique sound characteristics, the bottom housings provide a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile.
Overall, the differing housing materials used in the KTT Lightning and the Gateron Mountain Top contribute to their individual sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Lightning creates a clearer and resonant sound profile, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Mountain Top offers a deeper and rounder sound profile. Despite these differences in top housing material, both switches share a commonality in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound characteristics and aesthetics.
Weight
The actuation force of the KTT Lightning linear switch is 43 grams, which is slightly heavier than the actuation force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch at 40 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a consistent typing experience when fully pressed. The KTT Lightning switch offers a slightly lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler typing experience, while the Gateron Mountain Top switch may be better suited for users who prefer a slightly heavier actuation force. Overall, both switches fall into the lighter category compared to other switches on the market, making them ideal for those who prioritize comfortable typing over a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Lightning switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Mountain Top switch. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the Lightning switch due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial pressing feel may opt for the Mountain Top switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, 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 KTT Lightning linear switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience that is bright and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a more neutral sound, suitable for various environments without being too disruptive. Depending on your preference for sound, the Lightning switch will give you a more pronounced and distinctive typing experience, while the Mountain Top switch is geared towards a more subdued and subtle sound.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Lightning linear switch is described as subtle and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance. This makes it suitable for shared spaces where loud typing sounds could be a concern. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is bouncy and easy-to-press, providing a lively feel with minimal force required for key presses. The Mountain Top switch aims to enhance the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel, catering to comfortable and effortless typing sessions.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch that prioritizes speed and precision with a clacky sound profile and a polished feel, the KTT Lightning linear switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch engineered for office use with a neutral sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch would be more suitable. However, both switches offer their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and ultimately, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, it is clear that the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch cater to different preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch that offers speed and a "clacky" sound profile for gaming or quick typing scenarios where milliseconds count, the Lightning switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you require a switch with a quiet and unobtrusive typing experience suitable for professional settings, the Mountain Top switch would be more fitting. Consider your priorities and environment when making your decision between these two switches to ensure you choose the one that best suits your needs.
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