Gateron Mountain Top vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that these two mechanical keyboard switches cater to different preferences and needs. The Mountain Top switch from Gateron is designed specifically for office environments, offering a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience that is ideal for professional settings. With its light actuation and subdued sound signature, the Mountain Top switch is perfect for discreet and continuous typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue switch provides a clicky typing experience that is characterized by a satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound. While the Mountain Top switch prioritizes subtlety and comfort, the Cream Blue switch is geared towards users who enjoy a more tactile and audible 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
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Both the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Cream Blue utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to the softness of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Whether it's the Mountain Top or the Cream Blue, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and overall feel.
Though both switches share the same nylon housing material for their top and bottom components, the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Cream Blue may differ in other aspects such as stem type or spring weight, which could impact the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the switches plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. These subtle differences may result in a varied typing experience between the two switches, despite their shared housing material.
Overall, the use of nylon in the housing of both the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Cream Blue switches contributes to a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile. However, other factors such as stem type and spring weight may play a role in distinguishing the two switches from each other. Whether one prefers the Mountain Top or the Cream Blue, the nylon housing material ensures a deep and full sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience for both switches.
Weight
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch boasts 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 Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial feel with each keystroke. Those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience may prefer the Cream Blue switch due to its medium-heavy force requirements. Both switches offer different weight preferences, with the Mountain Top being lighter and the Cream Blue being heavier, catering to users who have specific preferences for their typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, we can see that the Mountain Top has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Cream Blue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can have an impact on how the keys feel when typing or gaming. Those who prefer a quicker response time may opt for the Mountain Top with its shorter travel distance, which is favored by many gamers. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for individual users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00, whereas the Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Mountain Top provides a neutral typing experience that is suitable for various settings. It strikes a balance between actuation force and sound profile, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users in any environment. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue's sound characteristics are unknown, but it's essential to keep in mind that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top offers a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience. The keys provide a spring-like feedback and require minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. This switch also falls under the category of mild switches, offering a gentle typing experience without being overly pronounced in any single characteristic. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue's feel characteristics are unknown.
In summary, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mountain Top switch is known for its neutral sound profile and bouncy, easy-to-press feel, the Cream Blue's specific characteristics in these areas remain unspecified. For users looking for a quiet typing experience with a light and responsive feel, the Gateron Mountain Top may be the preferred choice. However, for those who prioritize clicky feedback and a distinct tactile feel, the Outemu Cream Blue could also be a viable option. Ultimately, it's crucial to consider personal preferences and typing needs when choosing between these two switches.
Conclusion
Therefore, in choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for actuation force and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a discreet typing sound for office environments, the Gateron Mountain Top switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force and a clicky typing experience, the Outemu Cream Blue switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Consider your typing environment and personal preferences when making your decision between these two switches.
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