Gateron Mountain Top vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it's important to consider the specific needs of your typing experience. The Mountain Top switch is ideal for office environments, offering a quiet yet lightly tactile typing experience that is perfect for discreet and continuous use in professional settings. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch lacks specific details about its design or purpose, leaving room for interpretation. While the Mountain Top switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, neutral, snappy, and subtle, the Dustproof Brown switch's characteristics remain unknown. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches both feature nylon bottom housing, providing a deep and full sound profile due to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. In contrast, the Mountain Top has a nylon top housing which continues to enhance the deep and full sound profile, while the Dustproof Brown features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Brown's top housing leads to a more clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Both the Mountain Top and Dustproof Brown switches utilize nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the switches' deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material results in a similar typing experience for both switches, with a focus on producing a duller and rounder sound when pressing down on the keys. However, the top housing materials of the two switches differ significantly, with the Mountain Top's nylon top housing providing a softer sound profile compared to the sharper and crisper sound profile of the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing. This difference in top housing material affects the sound produced when releasing a key, highlighting the impact of the top housing on overall sound quality.
The unique combination of nylon bottom housing and polycarbonate top housing in the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch creates a distinct sound profile that is characterized by its sharp, high-pitched, and clear tones. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switch maintains a consistent sound profile throughout, with both its top and bottom housings made of nylon. Despite the differences in top housing material between the two switches, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel remains consistent, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Overall, while the Mountain Top and Dustproof Brown switches offer varying sound profiles, their housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, we see that the Mountain Top has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Dustproof Brown's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mountain Top requires 50 grams while the Dustproof Brown needs 65 grams, making the Dustproof Brown the heavier option. The lighter actuation force of the Mountain Top may be preferred by those who enjoy typing for extended periods, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Dustproof Brown can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, both switches offer different levels of force that cater to varying preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. The Mountain Top switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Brown switch. The shorter travel distance of the Mountain Top switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as it allows for quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Brown switch may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and the desired typing feel.
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 Brown 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
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is known for its balanced and subdued sound signature, providing a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience ideal for office environments. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is unknown. When it comes to feel, the Mountain Top switch offers a bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle typing experience, with a focus on enhancing typing efficiency and comfort. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Dustproof Brown switch is unspecified. Overall, if you are looking for a switch that offers a balanced sound and a lively, responsive typing feel, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch would be a suitable choice. Unfortunately, without information on the tactile feel of the Dustproof Brown switch, it is difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, due to the lack of information provided on the Dustproof Brown switch, it is recommended to perform further research or test the switch personally to determine if it meets your preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, consider the specific requirements of your typing environment and preferences. If you prioritize a light actuation force and quiet typing experience for professional settings, the Gateron Mountain Top may be the better choice with its 50-gram bottom out force and discreet sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and tactile feedback without a specific target environment in mind, the Outemu Dustproof Brown could be the right fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing style, noise considerations, and personal preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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