Gateron Mountain Top vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top and the Cherry Nixie mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes clear that they cater to different user preferences and needs. The Mountain Top by Gateron is designed for office environments, prioritizing a quiet yet tactile typing experience. With a light actuation and subdued sound signature, it is ideal for continuous typing without causing disruption. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is a classic choice known for its substantial heft and textured typing feel, incorporating modern innovations from Cherry's MX2A update. While the Mountain Top offers a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, the Nixie provides a textured and low-pitched typing experience. Both switches have their unique advantages and appeal, making it essential to delve deeper into their specific characteristics to determine the best fit for individual preferences. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Mountain Top and the Cherry Nixie utilize nylon as the material for both their top and bottom switch housings. This means that when typing on switches from either of these models, users can expect a similar experience in terms of sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound that is duller and rounder compared to switches with different housing materials.
Although both switches share similar nylon housing materials, they may differ in the exact design and construction details of their housings. While the Mountain Top and Nixie switches may produce a similar sound profile due to their nylon housing, the specific shape and structure of their housings could influence the typing experience in subtle ways. Factors such as the thickness of the housings or the presence of additional features could affect the tactile feedback and overall feel of the switches during use.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Mountain Top and the Cherry Nixie may come down to personal preference or specific preferences for sound and feel. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to their nylon housings, creating a unique typing experience that sets them apart from switches with different housing materials. Whether users prioritize the tactile feel of bottom housing impact or the sound upon key release, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience supported by the benefits of nylon switch housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it becomes evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Gateron Mountain Top has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie features a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Mountain Top make it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the heavier forces of the Nixie cater to individuals seeking a more robust typing experience. 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, which is shorter than the Cherry Nixie linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Mountain Top makes it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Nixie's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke for those who prefer greater depth in their switch. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, catering to the individual preferences of users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether the user values shorter, quicker keystrokes or longer, more deliberate key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie 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 that is suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in the office. It provides a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound signature, balancing performance with discretion. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch produces a thocky, low-pitched sound that is deep and rich, providing a satisfying typing experience. The Nixie's sound is known for its bass-heavy and mellow tone, offering a more traditional and tactile auditory feedback compared to the Mountain Top.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is characterized by its bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle feel. These qualities provide a responsive and low-impact typing experience that is comfortable and efficient, minimizing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is described as textured, potentially offering a tactile sensation with noticeable friction when pressed. This texture may appeal to users who prefer a more tactile feel when typing, enhancing the overall typing experience with a unique feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch emphasizes a discreet typing experience suited for professional settings with its neutral sound and versatile feel. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch combines a classic design with modern innovations, delivering a thocky sound and a potentially textured feel for a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing environment, as both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different user preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch or the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and needs. If you are looking for a switch that is light and discreet, ideal for office environments with a quiet typing experience, then the Gateron Mountain Top switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier and more textured typing experience with a deep and satisfying sound profile, the Cherry Nixie switch could be the perfect fit. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and environment. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs for an optimal typing experience.
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