Gateron Mountain Top vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch to the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it becomes evident that each offers a unique typing experience to cater to different preferences. The Mountain Top switch by Gateron is perfect for office environments, as it provides a quiet typing experience with a light actuation, making it ideal for professional settings that require discretion. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch stands out with its distinct clicky typing experience, offering a heavier weight and sharp clickiness that is invigorating and crunchy. While the Mountain Top switch is bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, neutral, snappy, and subtle, the Sage switch is characterized by its invigorating, sharp, and crunchy feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and specific typing needs. 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
70g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the Kailh Sage, we can see that the Mountain Top utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, while the Sage uses polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. This difference in materials leads to a distinct difference in sound profiles. The nylon top and bottom housing of the Mountain Top create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Sage produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhanced by its stiffer plastic composition. However, both switches still utilize nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a shared quality of deeper and fuller sound profiles.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Kailh Sage allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a visually appealing option for those looking to add a customizable touch to their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the opaque nylon housing of the Gateron Mountain Top may not offer the same visual flair but focuses more on the tactile and auditory experience of typing. While the Sage's polycarbonate top housing may provide a more resonant sound profile, the Mountain Top's nylon housing creates a softer and more absorbing sound, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
Overall, the different housing materials used in the Gateron Mountain Top and Kailh Sage switches highlight the variety of options available to keyboard enthusiasts seeking a specific typing experience. While the Sage offers a crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, the Mountain Top provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon construction. Both switches share the benefits of nylon in the bottom housing, contributing to a consistent deep and full sound profile overall. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Kailh Sage clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Mountain Top requires 50 grams, while the Sage needs 70 grams, making it heavier. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Mountain Top would be the better choice, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Sage provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, catering to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we find that the Mountain Top has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Sage's 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular today, the Sage offers a slightly longer press depth. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the Mountain Top with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Sage. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience 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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25.
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 various environments, whether it be at home or in a professional setting. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch provides a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is known for its bouncy and easy-to-press nature, providing a responsive and low-impact typing experience. In contrast, the Kailh Sage switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, along with a moderate to firm actuation force for a more immersive typing sensation. While both switches offer unique tactile experiences, the choice between a bouncy and easy-to-press feel or an invigorating and sharp feel ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing style.
Overall, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and Kailh Sage clicky switch each offer their own unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing needs. Whether you prefer a more neutral sound with a bouncy feel or a crunchy sound with an invigorating tactile feedback, both switches provide options for users looking to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the typing environment.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that is ideal for quiet typing in an office environment, with a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky typing experience with a heavy actuation force, and enjoy a crunchy sound profile, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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