Gateron Mountain Top vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is evident that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Mountain Top switch from Gateron is tailored for office environments, ensuring a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience. With a comfortably light actuation and subdued sound signature, it is ideal for continuous typing in professional settings. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is known for its clicky feedback, perfect for those who prefer a tactile typing experience. While the Mountain Top switch is described as 'bouncy', 'easy-to-press', 'mild', 'neutral', 'snappy', and 'subtle', the Dustproof Blue switch does not provide specific characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on individual preferences for noise level and 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
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Dustproof Blue both use nylon for their bottom housing, allowing for a deep and full sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that can be experienced during both the press and release of a key. This consistency in material between the two switches means that users can expect similar sound qualities when typing on either the Mountain Top or Dustproof Blue switches.
However, the top housing materials of the Mountain Top and Dustproof Blue switches differ, with the Mountain Top utilizing nylon while the Dustproof Blue uses polycarbonate. The nylon top housing of the Mountain Top produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, emphasizing the softer nature of nylon in absorbing sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Blue creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing material for a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. The split between nylon bottom housing and polycarbonate top housing in the Mountain Top and Dustproof Blue switches showcases how different materials can affect the overall typing experience. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the Mountain Top's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Users can choose between these options based on their preference for sound and aesthetic features like RGB lighting.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch differ in terms of weight. The Mountain Top has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Dustproof Blue's 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Mountain Top's bottom out force of 50 grams is lighter than the Dustproof Blue's 65 grams, making the latter more suitable for those who prefer a heavier push feel. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their respective forces, with the Mountain Top providing a lighter touch and the Dustproof Blue offering a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Dustproof Blue provides a more traditional feel with its longer travel distance, offering a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Mountain Top offers a slightly shorter travel distance, catering to those who prefer a quicker response time and a more responsive feel. Gamers may lean towards the Mountain Top for its shorter travel distance, allowing for faster key presses during gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the shorter distance of the Mountain Top appealing to some while others may enjoy the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Blue.
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 Dustproof 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments. It strikes a balance between actuation force and sound output, providing a comfortable typing experience without being too loud or too soft. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch are unknown, which may make it a bit more of a gamble in terms of noise level and suitability for different settings.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle, offering a range of tactile feedback options for users to choose from. These qualities enhance the typing experience by providing a responsive and comfortable feel that can reduce fatigue during long typing sessions. The feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch is not specified, but it is important to note that the feel of a switch can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
Considering all available information, it is clear that the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a well-rounded typing experience with its quiet sound profile and responsive feel options. While the qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch remain unknown, it is important for users to consider their preferences for noise level, actuation force, and tactile feedback when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results depending on individual preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, you should opt for the Mountain Top if you value a light actuation force and a quiet typing experience, especially in a professional setting. The Mountain Top switch is ideal for office environments with its discreet sound profile and easy-to-press keys. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force and a more tactile typing experience, the Dustproof Blue switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for key feel, sound, and intended use case. Consider these factors carefully before making your decision.
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