KTT Matcha vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Mountain Top offer distinct features to consider. The Matcha stands out as a tactile switch, known for its comfortable and snappy tactility while typing, along with a clean bottom-out sound. In contrast, the Mountain Top from Gateron is a linear switch designed for office environments, providing a quiet yet non-silent typing experience that is light and discreet. While the Matcha is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', and 'Clacky', the Mountain Top is labeled as 'Bouncy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Mild'. Both switches have their unique advantages, catering to different preferences and settings. 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
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Mountain Top, we see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Matcha features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Mountain Top uses a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound, while the Mountain Top's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. These differences in housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles for each switch.
Despite these differences, there are also similarities between the two switches. Both the Matcha and the Mountain Top prioritize the sound profile of their switches, with the Matcha utilizing polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound, and the Mountain Top using nylon for a more full-bodied sound. Additionally, both switches consider the aesthetics of their housing materials, with polycarbonate being translucent and ideal for RGB lighting in the Matcha, while nylon is a classic switch housing material in the Mountain Top. These similarities suggest that while the sound profiles may differ, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Matcha and the Gateron Mountain Top ultimately depends on the sound profile that the user prefers. The polycarbonate housing of the Matcha creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon housing of the Mountain Top produces a deeper, fuller sound. Whether one prioritizes clarity and resonance or a rounder, absorbing sound will guide the choice between these two switches. However, both switches demonstrate a focus on sound quality and aesthetics in their housing materials, providing users with options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
The KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch have similar actuation forces, both requiring 40 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force of the Matcha is 45 grams, while the Mountain Top requires 50 grams to press all the way down. This makes the Matcha the lighter option overall. Some users may prefer the Matcha for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue is a concern. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Mountain Top may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. In terms of overall weight, the Matcha is the lighter choice, while the Mountain Top is slightly heavier. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Matcha has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Mountain Top. The 0.6 mm may not seem like much of a difference, but it can affect the overall typing experience. If you prefer a deeper key press with more travel, the Matcha may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quicker response time and a shorter travel distance, the Mountain Top may be more suitable. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, so it ultimately depends on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 comparing the sound profile of the KTT Matcha tactile switch with the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is evident that the Matcha offers a more distinct and clacky sound, providing a crisp and percussive typing experience. In contrast, the Mountain Top switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various settings. The choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired sound experience, whether one prefers a sharper, clacky sound or a more neutral and discreet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Matcha switch offers a unique stepped and snappy tactile feedback, providing a more dynamic typing experience with pronounced tactility. The feathery and subtle characteristics of the Matcha switch make it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is described as bouncy and easy-to-press, offering a gentle and low-impact typing feel that reduces fatigue during extended use. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Matcha excels in providing a more varied and pronounced tactile feedback compared to the smoother and more consistent feel of the Mountain Top switch.
Overall, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing needs. Whether you prefer a sharper, more tactile typing experience with a distinct sound like the Matcha or a smoother, quieter typing experience like the Mountain Top, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and tactility.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a snappy and tactile typing experience with a clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and light typing experience suitable for office settings, the Mountain Top switch may be more suitable. Remember that the Matcha switch offers a slightly lighter bottom-out force compared to the Mountain Top switch, so take this into account when determining your preferred typing feel. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths, and your decision should be based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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