Gateron Mountain Top vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top and the TTC Neptune mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Mountain Top from Gateron is designed specifically for office environments, offering a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience with a light actuation. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out with its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and frictionless typing experience, coupled with a springy resistance that gives every keystroke a textured pleasure. While the Mountain Top focuses on discreet and continuous typing in professional settings, the Neptune excels in providing a matte feel and ultralight typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and specific needs. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to determine the best switch for your individual typing style and environment.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
41g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and TTC Neptune switches both play a significant role in the sound profile they produce. While the Mountain Top utilizes a nylon top housing for a deeper and fuller sound, the Neptune features a POM top housing that creates a more muted and deeper sound. Despite their differences, both materials are known for their ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This makes them both excellent choices for users looking for a switch that provides a satisfying acoustic experience.
In terms of bottom housing, the Mountain Top uses nylon which contributes to a deeper sound profile, while the Neptune employs a polycarbonate bottom housing for a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The differences in these materials lead to varying impacts on the overall sound produced by the switches. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune enhances the bottom-out sound and feel, while the nylon bottom housing of the Mountain Top adds to the overall depth and fullness of the sound. Despite these distinctions, both bottom housing materials offer unique qualities that enhance the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Mountain Top and TTC Neptune switches will largely come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Nylon top housing of the Mountain Top results in a fuller sound, while the POM top housing of the Neptune offers a more unique and muted sound experience. Similarly, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune provides a crisper sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Mountain Top adds a deeper element to the sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer exceptional qualities that cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Mountain Top has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that both switches are light to the touch, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the slight difference in actuation force between the two may not be significantly noticeable in actual use. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, either switch would provide similar results. Weight is a crucial factor to consider when choosing switches, as a lighter weight can lead to longer and more comfortable typing sessions. Ultimately, whether to choose the Mountain Top or the Neptune will come down to personal preference for actuation force, as both switches offer a similar lightweight typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. The Mountain Top switch may offer a slightly quicker keypress due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for those looking for a more responsive feel. On the other hand, the Neptune switch with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are seeking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch provides a low-pitched and muted sound, ensuring a refined and unobtrusive auditory experience. While the Mountain Top switch is more versatile in its sound signature, the Neptune switch carries a distinct bass-heavy tone that appeals to those seeking a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is described as bouncy and easy-to-press, providing a lively and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Neptune switch offers a buttery and frictionless feel, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Both switches provide a mild typing sensation that is approachable to most users, with the Mountain Top emphasizing rebound and light actuation force, while the Neptune focuses on a polished and gummy texture.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Mountain Top switch excels in offering a neutral sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel, making it a versatile option for various typing preferences. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switch stands out with its low-pitched, bass-heavy sound and buttery, frictionless feel, appealing to users looking for a quieter and smoother typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users will get distinctive yet satisfying results based on their chosen switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch or the TTC Neptune linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value a quiet and discreet typing experience, ideal for office environments, the Gateron Mountain Top with its bouncy and easy-to-press feel may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique and textured typing sensation with a smooth and almost frictionless glide, the TTC Neptune with its buttery and gummy feel would be more suitable. Additionally, if you lean towards low-pitched and muted sound profiles, the Neptune would be a better fit, while the Mountain Top offers a more neutral sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the type of typing feel and sound signature that aligns with your personal preferences and working environment.
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