Gateron Mountain Top vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch to the KTT Orange linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Mountain Top switch is tailored for office environments, offering a quiet yet subtly tactile typing experience with a light actuation force. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch boasts a bouncy feel and smooth key travel, thanks to its 22mm long spring and factory-lubing. While both switches fall under the 'Bouncy' category, the Mountain Top emphasizes a more professional and discreet typing experience, while the KTT Orange focuses on providing a frictionless and low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether you prioritize a subdued sound signature for professional settings or a smooth and bouncy 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
46g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mountain Top and KTT Orange switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Mountain Top's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. In contrast, the Orange's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The differences in material composition result in distinct sound experiences when typing on switches with these housings.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Gateron Mountain Top and KTT Orange switches also play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Mountain Top contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Orange adds a sharper and crisper sound quality to the typing experience. The differences in plastic composition between the bottom housings of these switches result in unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the Gateron Mountain Top and KTT Orange switches offers users the opportunity to choose a switch that aligns with their sound preferences. While the Mountain Top's nylon housing provides a softer and rounder sound profile, the Orange's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and clearer sound experience. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches deliver unique typing experiences that are influenced by their top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Orange linear switch. The Mountain Top requires a 40-gram actuation force and a 50-gram bottom out force, making it lighter in both aspects. In contrast, the KTT Orange switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Mountain Top switch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the KTT Orange switch. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and tactile feedback of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may be imperceptible to the average user. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Mountain Top and KTT Orange switches will depend on personal preference for a slightly shorter or longer travel distance, with neither switch offering a significant advantage over the other in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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, making it suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the KTT Orange linear switch provides a low-pitched sound that is bass-heavy and mellow, adding a unique auditory experience to typing. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the surrounding noise level.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Gateron Mountain Top and KTT Orange linear switches are described as bouncy, offering a lively and spring-like sensation when typing. Additionally, the KTT Orange switch is noted for its frictionless feel, providing an ultra-smooth typing experience. These qualities enhance typing efficiency and comfort, making them suitable for prolonged use.
Considering all available information, both the Gateron Mountain Top and KTT Orange linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Mountain Top switch is tailored for discreet, professional environments with a neutral sound and bouncy feel, the KTT Orange switch stands out with its low-pitched sound and frictionless key travel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound profile, typing feel, and overall typing experience. Additionally, as both switches offer bouncy key feel, users can expect similar results in terms of tactile feedback and typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you are working in a professional setting where a quiet typing experience is essential, the Mountain Top switch with its light actuation and subdued sound profile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and frictionless typing feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange switch could be the better option, especially if you enjoy a more tactile and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound, as both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your overall typing experience.
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