Gateron Mountain Top vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Mountain Top switch is ideal for those seeking a quiet typing experience in office environments, with a light actuation and subdued sound signature. On the other hand, the Duck switch provides a more subtle tactile feedback, giving a gentle tactility while typing. The Mountain Top is described as 'bouncy', 'easy-to-press', and 'snappy', whereas the Duck is characterized as 'buttery' and 'polished'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal typing preferences and the desired typing experience. 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
58g
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
The Gateron Mountain Top utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a switch that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both switches offer a unique sound profile based on their housing materials, the Mountain Top leans towards a softer and fuller sound, while the Duck provides a sharper and crisper audio experience.
However, despite the differences in materials, both the Gateron Mountain Top and the SP-Star Duck offer a similar tactile experience when typing. The nylon bottom housing of the Mountain Top and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck both play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The softer nature of nylon in the Mountain Top contributes to a deeper bottom-out sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate in the Duck results in a crisper bottom-out experience. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether nylon in the Mountain Top or polycarbonate in the Duck, influences the sound when the key is released, showcasing the unique qualities each material brings to the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Mountain Top and the SP-Star Duck ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The softer, rounder sound of the Mountain Top's nylon housing may appeal to those looking for a deeper typing experience, while the crisper and sharper sound of the Duck's polycarbonate housing may be preferred by those who enjoy a more precise and resonant typing sound. Both switches offer a tactile feel that is influenced by their bottom housing material, with the top housing material contributing to the overall sound profile of each switch. Whether you prefer the deeper tones of nylon or the sharper tones of polycarbonate, both switches provide a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, giving a more substantial push feel while typing. The actuation force for the Duck switch is unknown, but with a heavier bottom out force, it is likely to require a slightly stronger initial push compared to the Mountain Top switch. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, with the Mountain Top being lighter and better suited for longer typing sessions, while the Duck switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is clear that the Mountain Top has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Duck's 4 mm. The Mountain Top's 3.4 mm distance provides a more responsive feel, making it a good choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Duck's 4 mm travel distance offers a more substantial depth when pressing down on the key, which some may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preference for travel distance, as each offers a different tactile feel for users to explore.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck 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, both the Gateron Mountain Top and SP-Star Duck switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments. This means you can enjoy a moderate sound level that won't be disruptive in shared spaces, whether you're in an office or at home. Keep in mind that the overall sound of the switches can also be impacted by factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience, with a mild and subtle overall sensation. These switches give a lively feedback while requiring minimal force for activation, making them ideal for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch offers a mild and buttery typing feel, with a polished finish that contributes to a smooth and uniform keystroke experience. These qualities can enhance your overall typing comfort and efficiency.
Overall, both the Gateron Mountain Top and SP-Star Duck switches are designed to offer a comfortable and versatile typing experience, especially in professional or shared environments. They both provide a neutral sound profile and a pleasant tactile feel, ensuring that you can enjoy a satisfying typing experience regardless of your skill level. Whether you choose the Mountain Top for its bouncy and easy-to-press feel or the Duck for its mild and buttery sensation, you can expect similar levels of quality and performance from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider the specific environment and typing experience you prefer. If you work in an office setting and value a quiet yet light and responsive typing experience, the Mountain Top switch could be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more subtle tactile feedback with a clean and crispy sound profile, the Duck switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style, environment, and desired level of tactility and sound. Choose the switch that aligns with your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
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