Gateron Mountain Top vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly influence your typing experience, and two notable options are the Gateron Mountain Top and the Cherry MX Purple RGB. The Mountain Top is engineered specifically for office environments, boasting a design that provides a quiet yet pleasant typing experience, perfect for those who value discretion and a light actuation. Its characteristics, such as being bouncy and easy to press, make it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions without disturbing colleagues. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches deliver a refined tactile feedback that's ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy a more pronounced bump with each keystroke. Developed with input from keyboard aficionados, the MX Purple RGB provides satisfying tactile input that enhances both gaming and typing experiences. While both switches cater to distinct preferences—one focusing on a subtle, professional environment and the other offering a more engaging tactile response—both have their merits based on your typing needs. 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
N/A
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
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
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Mountain Top and Cherry MX Purple RGB both utilize nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom components. This shared choice of nylon suggests that users can expect a similar auditory experience when using either switch. Nylon, known for its softness compared to other plastics, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. As a result, the typing experience on both switches is characterized by a warmer tone, as the material's ability to absorb sound dampens the clatter often associated with typist feedback. Consequently, users of both switches are likely to appreciate a more muted and rounded auditory feedback, enhancing overall typing comfort.
While the housing materials are identical in both switches, the potential differences in design and engineering might influence the overall feel and performance. Even though both switches employ nylon housing, any variations in spring tension, actuation point, or travel distance can lead to distinct typing experiences. The bottom housing, in particular, plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel, which means differences there could still result in contrasting tactile responses while using either switch. Therefore, when pressing down on the switches, users may notice differing sensations due to such engineering choices, despite the underlying sound properties remaining consistent across the two models.
When it comes to the top housing, since both the Gateron Mountain Top and Cherry MX Purple RGB feature nylon, the release sound—the sound produced when letting go of the key—will also resonate similarly. The impact of this shared material in the top housing fosters comparable auditory feedback during the key release phase, reinforcing the overall typing experience. However, while the similarity in materials contributes to shared sound characteristics, the unique traits influenced by other switch components still allow users to distinguish between the two, highlighting how even the same materials can manifest differently based on design intentions and engineering. This interplay of materials and design ultimately determines the nuanced differences that define user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom-out force emerge. The Gateron Mountain Top features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option that can be more comfortable for prolonged typing or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams, which may provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a firmer key press, although its bottom-out force is unspecified. This uncertainty in the bottom-out force of the MX Purple means that any comparison in that regard can't be made definitively. Overall, if you prefer a lighter switch, the Gateron Mountain Top is the better choice, while those seeking a heavier feel might lean towards the Cherry MX Purple, depending on how it feels in practice.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This means that the Mountain Top switch provides a shorter actuation distance, which may cater to gamers seeking faster response times and a more responsive feel during intense gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a more substantial depth, appealing to those who prefer a tactile feedback experience with a bit more resistance while typing or gaming. Ultimately, both switches serve different preferences: the Mountain Top for those who favor quick, nimble key presses, and the Cherry MX for those who appreciate a more pronounced actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch excels in providing a neutral audio profile that balances a moderate actuation force with a subdued sound signature. This makes it ideal for office environments where noise levels must be kept in check, allowing users to type without disturbing others nearby. Although details on the sound profile of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch are lacking, tactile switches typically tend to produce a more pronounced noise compared to linear switches. When combined with the right keyboard and keycaps, the overall sound experience would still cater to those who enjoy a bit of audible feedback.
Regarding feel, the Mountain Top switch stands out with its bouncy, easy-to-press, and snappy characteristics. The light actuation force ensures that users experience minimal resistance, making extended typing sessions comfortable and fatigue-free. The combination of these qualities delivers a responsive and lively typing sensation. Although there are no specific feel descriptors for the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches available, it's worth noting that tactile switches generally offer a distinct bump during actuation, providing satisfaction in terms of feedback. However, without detailed descriptions, a clear comparison remains elusive.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch cater to different typing preferences and use cases. The Mountain Top is specifically designed for quieter environments, making it a great choice for professionals seeking discretion. Meanwhile, the MX Purple RGB offers a tactile bump that creates a different typing dynamic that may appeal to enthusiasts, though more specific details on its sound and feel would enhance the comparison. Ultimately, while the Mountain Top provides a more subdued and easy-going typing experience, the tactile nature of the Cherry MX Purple RGB invites a lively interaction, highlighting the diverse nature of mechanical keyboard switches available today.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately comes down to your specific typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you find yourself working in an office or shared space where a quiet yet responsive typing experience is crucial, the Mountain Top switch would be an excellent choice. Its light actuation force and bouncy, snappy feel reduce finger fatigue while allowing for a discreet typing experience that minimizes disruption to those around you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback that offers a more pronounced bump and you enjoy the engaging sensation it provides, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would suit you well. This switch appeals to those who appreciate a more refined tactile encounter, especially useful for both typing and gaming. By understanding these distinctions, you can select the switch that aligns best with your personal preferences, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard enhances your productivity or enjoyment, whichever the case may be.
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