Gateron Mountain Top vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Mountain Top switch is designed with a focus on office environments, providing a quiet yet tactile typing experience that is not entirely silent. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch is known for its medium-light typing feel and low-pitched sound profile. While the Mountain Top switch prioritizes an unobtrusive and professional typing experience, the RedBlue switch offers a mix of uniqueness and comfort for typists. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Mountain Top and the SP-Star RedBlue switches have unique qualities in their housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile. The Mountain Top uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a softer and duller sound profile when typing. In contrast, the RedBlue features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in housing materials leads to a distinct typing experience, with the Mountain Top offering a deeper sound and the RedBlue providing a clearer sound.
While the Mountain Top and the RedBlue switches have contrasting housing materials, they both offer benefits in terms of sound profile. The nylon top housing of the Mountain Top absorbs more sound, creating a fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the RedBlue allows for more clarity and resonance. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials, with the Mountain Top providing a rounder sound and the RedBlue delivering a sharper sound. Despite the differences, both switches excel in producing quality sound due to their distinct housing materials.
In terms of design, the housing materials of the Mountain Top and the RedBlue switches play a significant role in their aesthetics. The translucent polycarbonate material used in the RedBlue provides a visually appealing look, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon material of the Mountain Top offers a classic and understated appearance. While the housing materials of these switches differ, they both contribute to the overall look and feel of the switches. Whether you prefer a clear and modern look with the RedBlue or a traditional appearance with the Mountain Top, both switches offer unique housing materials that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is evident that the Mountain Top is lighter in both aspects. The Mountain Top has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, slightly heavier than the Mountain Top. The actuation force determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force needed to press the key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Gateron Mountain Top would be a suitable choice, while those looking for a slightly heavier typing experience may lean towards the SP-Star RedBlue switch. Both switches offer different options for users based on their preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The 3.4 mm travel distance of the Mountain Top may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the 4 mm travel distance of the RedBlue may provide a more satisfying depth for certain users. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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, making it suitable for various environments and user preferences. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch presents a low-pitched sound with a thocky quality, delivering a more bass-heavy and satisfying typing experience. Both switches cater to different sound preferences, with the Mountain Top offering a more all-purpose sound, while the RedBlue provides a deeper and richer tone.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle, offering a range of feedback sensations from lively and responsive to gentle and understated. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue switch is characterized by a mild and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, the Mountain Top switch provides more varied feedback sensations compared to the RedBlue, which focuses on a polished and gentle feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is ideal for those seeking a neutral sound profile and a versatile typing experience with various feedback sensations. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch caters to users who prefer a low-pitched thocky sound and a polished, gentle feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both options offering quality performance in their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch or the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it really comes down to your individual preferences and needs. If you prioritize a quiet and light typing experience, especially in a professional setting, the Gateron Mountain Top switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing feel with a low-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue switch could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and environments, so ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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