Gateron Mountain Top vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Gateron Mountain Top and the KTT Purple Click mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Mountain Top switch from Gateron is ideal for office environments, offering a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience with a comfortably light actuation. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch from KTT provides a satisfying high-pitched click and a pronounced tactile feedback. The Mountain Top switch is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Subtle', while the Purple Click switch is characterized as 'Crunchy', 'Invigorating', and 'Stepped'. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preferences and specific use cases. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the KTT Purple Click, we see that the Mountain Top features a nylon top housing while the Purple Click uses a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Mountain Top creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Click produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic nature that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. These differences in material impact the overall sound experience of typing on these switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Mountain Top and Purple Click utilize nylon material. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a rounder sound. Despite having different top housing materials, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent sound experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. This shows how the housing materials can influence different aspects of the typing experience, even if they are the same material.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Mountain Top and KTT Purple Click will come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Mountain Top with its nylon top and bottom housing provides a deep and fuller sound, while the Purple Click with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different sound preferences, making it important for users to consider the material characteristics when selecting a switch for their typing needs. Regardless, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the sound experience of these switches, highlighting the importance of material choice in customizing the typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 40 grams, resulting in a similar typing experience when it comes to triggering a keystroke. However, the Mountain Top has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Purple Click's heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that while both switches may feel similar when initially typing, the Mountain Top switch would provide a slightly lighter overall typing experience, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch over extended periods of typing. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, giving users a more substantial push feel which may be preferred by those seeking a firmer typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces in their keyboard.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Purple Click clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Mountain Top has a shorter travel distance compared to the Purple Click. The shorter travel distance of the Mountain Top may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Purple Click may provide a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
The Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. This switch provides a moderate level of sound that is not overly loud, making it ideal for office environments. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is described as crunchy and resonant, providing a higher-pitched, satisfying click sound that is immersive and distinctive. The Purple Click switch is perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience while typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience, with a mild resistance that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue. The keys have a subtle feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is described as invigorating and stepped, offering pronounced feedback and a reactive typing feel. This switch provides a moderate to firm actuation force, creating an immersive typing sensation that is unique and engaging.
Overall, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience in their own right. The Mountain Top switch is best suited for those looking for a quiet and unobtrusive typing experience, perfect for office environments. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch is ideal for typists who enjoy a more distinctive and immersive sound and feel while typing. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and where you plan on using them.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, you should consider your typing environment and preferences. If you work in an office setting or need a quiet typing experience, the Mountain Top switch with its light actuation and subtle sound profile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and crunchy typing experience with a higher-pitched click, the Purple Click switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
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