Gateron Mountain Top vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch to the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Mountain Top is designed for office environments, providing a quiet yet tactile typing experience ideal for professional settings. In contrast, the KTT Strawberry stands out with its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, making it appealing to those seeking a more polished and buttery typing experience. While the Mountain Top switch is bouncy, easy-to-press, and subtle, the Strawberry switch is low-pitched, frictionless, and silky. These distinctions highlight the diverse qualities each switch offers. 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
62g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the KTT Strawberry, we see that the Mountain Top uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Strawberry uses polycarbonate for both. The nylon material in the Mountain Top creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate material in the Strawberry results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer composition. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate material is more advantageous for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the nylon material gives a more classic feel to the switch.
Looking at the individual components, the nylon bottom housing of the Mountain Top and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Strawberry both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The nylon in the Mountain Top provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate in the Strawberry creates a sharper and crisper sound. However, the impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the switch. Conversely, the top housing, whether made of nylon or polycarbonate, will have more of an impact on the sound produced when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the KTT Strawberry differ in terms of nylon and polycarbonate, they still deliver similar results in terms of creating unique sound profiles for typing. The softer nylon of the Mountain Top offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate of the Strawberry produces a sharper and clearer sound. Both materials have their advantages, with nylon providing a classic feel and polycarbonate enhancing RGB lighting effects. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials depends on personal preference for sound and aesthetics.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is 40 grams, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch has an actuation force of 43 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Mountain Top requires 50 grams, whereas the Strawberry needs 62 grams. Therefore, the Mountain Top is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Strawberry, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, both switches fall within the same category of force, so users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel. It ultimately comes down to personal preference whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Strawberry linear switch. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly quicker response time for the Mountain Top compared to the Strawberry. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Mountain Top with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the KTT Strawberry with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and response time.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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 switch is known for its neutral sound profile, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as having a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The sound characteristics of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is known for its bouncy and easy-to-press qualities, providing a lively and responsive feedback while requiring minimal force for activation. The switch is also described as having a mild and subtle feel, suitable for most users looking for a comfortable typing experience. In comparison, the KTT Strawberry switch is characterized by its frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced friction and refined key travel.
Overall, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is ideal for those seeking a quiet yet lightly tactile typing experience suitable for professional settings, with a neutral sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press feel. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch caters to users looking for a smoother and more refined typing experience, with a low-pitched sound profile and a frictionless, silky feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with both options offering unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider your typing environment and personal preferences. If you prioritize a quieter and more discreet typing experience, particularly in an office setting, the Mountain Top switch may be the better choice for you with its light actuation force and neutral sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more effortless typing feel with a lower-pitched sound, the KTT Strawberry switch might be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which switch aligns best with your typing style and work environment.
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