Gateron Mountain Top vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinctly different typing experiences catering to different preferences. The Mountain Top switch is ideal for office environments, offering a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience with a light actuation. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch features a sharp tactile bump for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing feel with a lower-than-average sound frequency. While the Mountain Top switch emphasizes discretion and comfort in professional settings, the Blueberry switch focuses on delivering a satisfying tactile feedback. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Mountain Top features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Blueberry switches utilize a POM top housing, creating a more muted and deeper sound profile. While both materials offer a deep sound, the nylon housing of the Mountain Top may provide a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM housing of the Blueberry.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Mountain Top and the Blueberry switches use nylon and POM respectively. Nylon bottom housing in the Mountain Top switches contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the top housing. Conversely, the POM bottom housing in the Blueberry switches also adds to the unique sound profile, offering a relatively more muted tone. This means that the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed down.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gateron Mountain Top and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer a pleasing typing experience with unique sound profiles. While the Mountain Top utilizes nylon for both top and bottom housing, resulting in a deep and fuller sound, the Blueberry switches split the housing materials between POM and nylon for top and bottom respectively. This allows for a combination of deep and muted sound profiles, with each material impacting the overall typing experience in different ways. Ultimately, whether you choose the Mountain Top or the Blueberry, you can expect a satisfying and distinctive sound while typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it becomes evident that the Mountain Top is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry is heavier with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. The difference in weight between the two switches caters to individuals with different preferences. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Gateron Mountain Top, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry is ideal for individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Mountain Top would be preferred by those seeking a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, often favored by gamers. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry with its longer travel distance may appeal to individuals who enjoy a deeper keystroke feel. Overall, both switches offer different travel distances to cater to varying preferences, with the Gateron Mountain Top being shorter and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry being longer in this comparison.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 that is moderate and suitable for most users in various settings. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch provides a low-pitched and resonant sound experience with a clean and sharp profile, delivering a more bass-heavy and immersive sound compared to the Mountain Top switch.
When it comes to feel, both switches offer some similarities in terms of being snappy and providing a responsive typing experience. However, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle, offering a gentle and light typing feel suitable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch is characterized as buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff, providing a smooth, fluid keystroke experience with noticeable friction and a firm actuation force.
Overall, while both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. The Gateron Mountain Top switch is more geared towards discreet and easy typing in professional environments, while the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a sharp tactile bump and immersive sound experience for those who prefer a more pronounced and firm typing feel. Depending on your preferences and typing style, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch or the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, it's essential to reflect on your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you prioritize a light actuation force and a quiet typing experience for a professional setting, the Mountain Top switch from Gateron might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and a more immersive, resonant typing experience, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style and the ambiance you wish to create while using the keyboard. Consider these factors carefully to ensure that you select the switch that best aligns with your typing needs and preferences.
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