Gateron Mountain Top vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top and the KTT Purple Star linear switches, you have to consider the specific needs of your typing experience. The Mountain Top switch is tailored for office environments, providing a quiet typing experience with a light actuation, perfect for professional settings where discretion is key. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch offers a smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound signature, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. Both switches offer their unique advantages, but ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 KTT Purple Star switches both offer unique sound profiles, with the Mountain Top's nylon housing providing a deeper and fuller sound while the Purple Star's POM housing creates a more pleasing and muted sound. However, they both share the characteristic of being softer plastics that absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound for both switches. This similarity in material properties leads to a comparable typing experience in terms of sound output.
In terms of the top housing, the nylon housing of the Mountain Top switch offers a deeper sound profile compared to the POM housing of the Purple Star switch, which is described as more muted. The nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a fuller sound experience while typing on the Mountain Top switch. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Purple Star switch produces a unique sound that is also on the deeper side, but with a relatively more muted effect. These differences in sound profiles can cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing of the Mountain Top switch and the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star switch contribute to the overall typing experience in different ways. The nylon bottom housing of the Mountain Top switch impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star switch also adds to the deeper and more muted sound profile. These subtle differences in bottom housing material can affect the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch, providing a varied experience for users.
Weight
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, with the Mountain Top being slightly lighter overall. The Mountain Top has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience that is comfortable for extended periods of use. Some may prefer the Mountain Top for its slightly lighter actuation force, while others may lean towards the Purple Star for its slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of force requirements for typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, we find that the Mountain Top has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Purple Star's 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Mountain Top being slightly quicker to actuate. Gamers seeking a faster response time may prefer the Mountain Top, while those who enjoy a more deliberate key press may lean towards the Purple Star. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of how much key travel distance feels most comfortable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00, whereas the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88.
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 offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star provides a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow in nature. Both switches offer different sound experiences, with the Mountain Top being more versatile for different environments, while the Purple Star provides a deeper and richer tone for a unique typing experience.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Mountain Top and KTT Purple Star switches are described as offering a mild typing experience with gentle resistance and easy-to-press keys. These characteristics make typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mountain Top is noted for its bouncy and snappy feedback, providing a livelier typing sensation, whereas the Purple Star offers a subtle feel that is approachable to most users. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with their own distinct characteristics.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mountain Top and KTT Purple Star switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences. While the Mountain Top is more neutral in sound and bouncy in feel, catering to professional settings with an emphasis on continuous typing, the Purple Star provides a low-pitched sound and a subtle feel that is ideal for light typists seeking a smooth typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer quality options that cater to different typing needs, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that provides a quiet and discreet typing experience ideal for office environments, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light actuation force and low-pitched sound signature, the KTT Purple Star linear switch may be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing preferences and environment when choosing between these two switches to ensure you have the best typing experience possible.
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