Gateron Mountain Top vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch to the Outemu Silent White linear switch, it is important to note the specific features and characteristics that set them apart. The Gateron Mountain Top switch stands out for its focus on providing a quiet typing experience tailored for office environments. With a subdued sound signature and light actuation, this switch is ideal for professionals seeking discretion during continuous typing tasks. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White switch offers a different approach with its silent typing experience. While lacking specific details about its design, this switch may appeal to individuals looking for a noiseless keyboard option. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Silent White switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound profile and feel. The Mountain Top uses a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In comparison, the Silent White features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer nature that creates a sharper and crisper sound. While both materials have their own unique qualities, the nylon top housing of the Mountain Top tends to produce a duller and rounder sound compared to the more resonant and clear sound of the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent White.
On the other hand, both switches share a nylon bottom housing material, which contributes to a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs sound effectively due to its softer plastic, creating a rounder and more muffled sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, in terms of bottom housing material, users can expect a consistent typing experience and sound outcome regardless of whether they choose the Gateron Mountain Top or the Outemu Silent White switches.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that each material brings its own qualities to the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials not only affects the sound profile but also influences how the typing experience feels, making it crucial for users to consider their preferences in sound and feel when selecting a switch.
Weight
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Silent White linear switch. The Mountain Top switch has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent White switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Mountain Top switch makes it easier to trigger keystrokes, which may be preferred for those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Silent White switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for gamers looking for quick response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be significant to the average user, as both switches offer a similar level of responsiveness. However, for those who are more sensitive to travel distances, the Mountain Top switch may provide a slightly deeper press compared to the Silent White switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of key press depth desired.
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 Silent White 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
Overall, when comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch to the Outemu Silent White linear switch, there are some key differences in subjective qualities. The Mountain Top switch is designed with a focus on providing a quiet yet tactile typing experience, making it ideal for office environments where noise is a concern. Its bouncy and easy-to-press feel offers a responsive and low-impact typing experience, suitable for prolonged use without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, information about the Silent White switch is currently unavailable, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in terms of sound and feel. However, based on the description of the Mountain Top switch, it is likely that the Silent White switch may also offer a comfortable typing experience with a focus on minimizing noise. In conclusion, if the Silent White switch shares similar characteristics to the Mountain Top switch, users can expect a subtle and gentle typing feel with a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various typing preferences and environments.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, consider opting for the Mountain Top if you value a light actuation force and a quiet typing experience ideal for office environments. The Mountain Top's bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle feel makes it suitable for professionals looking for a low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and are seeking a switch with a medium sound profile, the Outemu Silent White may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for actuation force, sound level, and typing feel to ensure a satisfying typing experience.