Gateron Mountain Top vs. Outemu Dustproof Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Dustproof Red mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer a smooth typing experience. The Mountain Top switch from Gateron is specifically designed for office environments, providing a quiet yet tactile typing experience that is ideal for professional settings. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red switch from Outemu does not have a specific highlighted feature, making it more of a general-use linear switch. While the Mountain Top switch boasts qualities like being easy-to-press and subtle, the Dustproof Red switch remains a bit of a mystery in terms of its specific characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Mountain Top Linear

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

$6.00 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Dustproof Red, it is clear that they have different properties that affect the sound profile of the switches. The Mountain Top's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. The difference in sound profiles between the two housing materials highlights how the materials used can impact the overall typing experience.

While the Mountain Top and Dustproof Red have different top housing materials, they both feature nylon bottom housings. This means that both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics. The similarity in bottom housing material between the two switches suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite the variation in top housing materials, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a certain level of sound absorption and a duller, rounder sound for both switches.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Dustproof Red will come down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Mountain Top's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound, the Dustproof Red's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. However, with both switches sharing nylon bottom housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound absorption and overall sound profile. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound or a more clear and resonant sound, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sound.

Weight

The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch. The Mountain Top requires 40 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Dustproof Red needs 45 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. This makes the Mountain Top feel more effortless to use, which may be preferred by those looking for a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red offers a bit more resistance, providing a slightly sturdier typing feel. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the Dustproof Red may be better suited for users who prefer a slightly heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.

Travel distance

Comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, we can see that the Mountain Top has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm while the Dustproof Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Mountain Top provides a quicker response time which may be preferred by gamers seeking faster input. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red offers a deeper keystroke, which may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired. Both switches offer distinct advantages, so selecting the one that best suits your needs will result in a satisfying typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a neutral sound profile suitable for various environments, particularly office settings where discreteness is valued. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.

When it comes to the feel of typing on these switches, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle. These qualities provide a lively typing experience with minimal finger fatigue and gentle resistance during key presses. In contrast, there is no available information on the feel of typing on the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch. Despite the lack of details, it can be assumed that it may offer a similar typing experience to the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch if they are both designed for general office use.

In conclusion, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch stands out for its balanced sound signature and comfortable actuation tailored for discreet typing in professional environments. While the sound and feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch remain unknown, it is likely that it provides a suitable typing experience comparably to the Gateron switch, considering both switches are designed for office use. Ultimately, choosing between these switches may come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user's typing environment.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you require a switch that is specifically designed for office settings, providing a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience, then the Mountain Top switch would be a suitable choice. With a light actuation force and a subdued sound signature, it caters to professional needs. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a slightly higher actuation force and do not have specific requirements for noise level, the Dustproof Red switch could be a good option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific demands of your typing environment.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Mountain Top Linear

$6.00 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Red Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more