Gateron Mountain Top vs. Outemu Dustproof Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Dustproof Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Dustproof Green offer unique experiences for users. The Gateron Mountain Top is a linear switch tailored for office environments, providing a quiet yet satisfying typing experience. With attributes like being bouncy, easy-to-press, and subtle, it caters to those looking for a discreet and professional keyboard option. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Green is a clicky switch that does not have any specific standout features mentioned. However, clicky switches are typically known for their audible click sound and tactile feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Dustproof Green, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Mountain Top utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Green features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile thanks to its stiffer composition that leads to clearer and more resonant sound. While both materials offer unique sound qualities, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of the sound profile desired.
On the other hand, the bottom housing for both switches is made of nylon. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, the differences in top housing material between the Mountain Top and the Dustproof Green still contribute to distinct sound profiles for each switch. With the bottom housing having a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the nylon material common to both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of depth and fullness of sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Dustproof Green will come down to individual preferences in sound profile and typing experience. While the Mountain Top offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top and bottom housings, the Dustproof Green provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Both switches utilize classic housing materials that have their own unique characteristics, ensuring a satisfying typing experience no matter the choice. Whether opting for the softer, absorbing qualities of nylon in the Mountain Top or the clear, resonant properties of polycarbonate in the Dustproof Green, users can expect a high-quality switch with distinct sound profiles to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is 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 Dustproof Green is heavier with an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Mountain Top make it ideal for those who prefer a smoother and less strenuous typing experience, perfect for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Dustproof Green provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for force sensitivity during typing.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Mountain Top offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a good choice for those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Dustproof Green switch provides a bit more depth to the key press, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer a different feel due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
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 Green 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 various settings and users. It provides a moderate actuation force requirement, creating a comfortable typing experience without being too loud. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch is not available, so it is difficult to compare the two in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is known for its bouncy and easy-to-press characteristics, offering a responsive and enjoyable typing experience. The keys have a lively feel with gentle resistance, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, they provide a mild and subtle typing experience, making them suitable for shared spaces. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Green switch are not provided, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in terms of typing sensation.
Overall, if you are looking for a quiet switch with a comfortable actuation force and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch would be a great choice for office environments. On the other hand, if you are considering the Outemu Dustproof Green clicky switch, it is essential to gather more information about its sound and feel qualities to make an informed decision. Remember that the switch's performance is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so be sure to consider the overall setup when choosing the right switch for your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that is light and quiet for office environments, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch would be the ideal choice. With its light actuation force and subdued sound signature, it provides a comfortable typing experience without being disruptive in professional settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier clicky switch with a more pronounced feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Green switch with its 80-gram bottom out force might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing experience.