Gateron Mountain Top vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top, a linear switch, to the Outemu Purple, a tactile switch, it's important to consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. The Mountain Top is favored for its suitability in office environments, providing a quiet yet slightly perceptible typing experience. With a light actuation and subtle sound signature, this switch is ideal for those seeking discretion during continuous typing in professional settings. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple lacks a specific defining feature but falls under the category of tactile switches. Tactile switches are known for their tactile bump feedback when pressed, offering a more tactile typing experience compared to linear switches. While both switches have their own appeal, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
N/A
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Purple both feature nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. This similarity means that typing on switches with either of these bottom housings will result in a similar duller and rounder sound profile. However, the top housing of the Mountain Top is made of nylon, while the Purple utilizes polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Purple creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. The Mountain Top's nylon top housing, on the other hand, adds a deeper and fuller sound quality to the switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the Outemu Purple's polycarbonate top housing has the advantage of being translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The clear housing allows for the illumination to shine through, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the switch. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top's nylon top housing does not offer the same level of transparency, making it less suitable for showcasing RGB lighting effects. However, both switches share the common feature of nylon bottom housing, which provides a consistent deep and fuller sound profile when typing.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of the bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. The combination of nylon bottom housing in both the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Purple ensures a similar deep and fuller typing experience. However, the difference in top housing materials results in distinct sound profiles, with the Mountain Top offering a duller and rounder sound, and the Purple providing a sharper and crisper sound. Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in typing feel and sound aesthetics.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch differ significantly. The Gateron Mountain Top has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Purple's 50 grams, making typing on the Mountain Top easier and potentially more comfortable for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the Mountain Top has a heavier bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the bottom out force of the Purple switch is unknown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Mountain Top has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Purple's 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Mountain Top may cater more to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Purple may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more deliberate key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Mountain Top leaning towards the shallower end and the Purple towards the deeper end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Purple 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 environments and users. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Purple tactile switch is unknown. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a responsive and comfortable feel while typing. The mild and subtle characteristics of the switch also contribute to a gentle typing experience suitable for different preferences. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Purple tactile switch is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect.
Overall, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch stands out for its discreet sound profile and comfortable typing experience, making it suitable for office settings or users seeking a versatile switch. While the qualities of the Outemu Purple tactile switch are unknown, if it aligns with the Gateron Mountain Top in terms of sound and feel, users can expect similar results. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and the specific typing needs of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch or the Outemu Purple tactile switch, you should opt for the Mountain Top if you prioritize a light actuation force and a quiet typing experience suitable for office environments. The Mountain Top's bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle feel caters to those who prefer a more gentle and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple switch's characteristics are not specified, making it difficult to determine its suitability for specific preferences. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch tailored for professional use with a light touch and quiet operation, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch would be the ideal choice for you.
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