Gateron Mountain Top vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Cherry MX Silent Red 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 Silent Red linear switch, both offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Mountain Top switch is ideal for office environments, providing a quiet typing experience with a light actuation that is perfect for prolonged use in professional settings. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch maintains the classic feel of the MX Red but with the added benefit of silent operation, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches offer their own set of characteristics and advantages, catering to individuals looking for a specific typing experience. 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
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and Cherry MX Silent Red switches both feature nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This leads to a duller and rounder sound that can be satisfying for many users. In terms of sound characteristics, both switches will provide a similar typing experience due to their shared use of nylon in the housing construction.
However, where the switches may differ is in the overall feel when pressing down on the keys. The bottom housing of the switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, so any differences in the bottom housing material between the Gateron Mountain Top and Cherry MX Silent Red switches may result in varied tactile feedback. On the other hand, the top housing's impact on the sound when releasing a key may be more noticeable if there are differences in material composition. This means that while sound profiles may be similar between the switches, the feel of typing could vary based on the specific housing materials used in each switch.
Ultimately, both the Gateron Mountain Top and Cherry MX Silent Red switches offer a deep and full sound profile thanks to their nylon housing materials. The choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience. Whether the nylon top and bottom housings are the same or different for each switch, the impact of these materials on sound and feel cannot be understated. Users looking for a quieter typing experience with a satisfying sound profile may find either of these switches to be a suitable option.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, a few key differences emerge. The Gateron Mountain Top has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red boasts a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, but its bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Gateron Mountain Top for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red offers a slightly firmer actuation force for a more responsive typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for quicker response times. The Mountain Top offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive than the MX Silent Red. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Mountain Top to be too abrupt for their liking. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may offer a more traditional typing experience with a bit more depth to the keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 offers a neutral sound profile, ideal for a variety of settings whether at home or in the office. Its moderate sound profile strikes a balance between audible feedback and quiet operation. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch provides a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound that is significantly quieter compared to traditional mechanical switches. This makes it an excellent choice for noise-sensitive environments where a quieter typing experience is essential.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch offers a bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle typing experience. These qualities combine to create a responsive and comfortable typing feel suitable for extended use. Conversely, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, meaning it may provide a slightly different tactile experience compared to the smoother feel of the Mountain Top switch.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the Gateron Mountain Top and Cherry MX Silent Red switches differ in terms of sound and feel, they both cater to users looking for a quieter typing experience. Whether you choose the Mountain Top for its balanced sound and lively feel or the MX Silent Red for its muted sound profile and subtle texture, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience for a variety of environments. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing space.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider your environment and personal preferences. Opt for the Gateron Mountain Top if you value a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience, particularly in office settings where discretion is key. On the other hand, choose the Cherry MX Silent Red if you prioritize a significantly quieter sound profile without compromising on the satisfying typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so ultimately, your choice should align with your specific requirements and preferences for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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