Gateron Mountain Top vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Mountain Top switch from Gateron is ideal for office environments, providing a quiet typing experience while still maintaining a light actuation force. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch is known for its subtle tactile feedback, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal noise. While the Mountain Top switch is praised for its bouncy and easy-to-press feel, the MX Brown switch is favored for its textured and bassy feedback. Each switch caters to different preferences and needs, making them suitable for various typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Mountain Top and the Cherry MX Brown switches feature nylon housing materials for both the top and bottom components. This shared material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound output, with a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made from harder plastics.
While both switches use nylon for their housing materials, the impact of this material is distributed differently in the Gateron Mountain Top and the Cherry MX Brown switches. In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, the qualities of the nylon material are divided between the two components. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This difference in distribution may lead to subtle variations in the overall typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the Gateron Mountain Top and the Cherry MX Brown switches offer a similar typing experience due to their shared use of nylon housing materials. Both switches produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more satisfying typing experience. The differences in how the nylon material impacts the sound and feel of the switches may provide users with unique preferences based on their typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the specific qualities that each user values in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. This means that the Mountain Top switch would require less force to trigger a keystroke and to press all the way down compared to the MX Brown switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Mountain Top switch, which would be ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue is a concern. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the MX Brown switch for a stronger push experience. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and comfort level of the user.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Mountain Top switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the MX Brown switch might be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00, whereas the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00.
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 Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is neither too loud nor too quiet, making it suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound that adds a deeper and richer audio feedback during typing. The choice between these two switches may depend on personal preference and the desired sound profile for your typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle, providing a spring-like feedback and gentle resistance that enhances the typing experience with responsiveness and comfort. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is noted for its textured feel, offering noticeable friction that can vary in preference among users. The decision between these switches may hinge on whether one prefers a smoother typing experience or enjoys the added texture during key presses.
Overall, both the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gateron switch provides a neutral sound and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel, the Cherry MX switch presents a bassy sound profile and a textured typing experience. Depending on your preferences for typing sound and feel, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience, with slight variations in their subjective qualities. Ultimately, the decision between these switches may come down to personal preference and the specific typing environment in which they will be used.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you are looking for a switch that is specifically designed for office settings and provides a quietly efficient typing experience, the Mountain Top may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle tactile feedback with a slightly heavier keypress, the Cherry MX Brown switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience and the noise level that is acceptable in your surroundings.
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