Gateron Mountain Top vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch to the Durock T1 tactile switch, it's clear that both have their own unique advantages. The Mountain Top switch, with its quiet yet light actuation, is perfect for office environments where discretion is key. On the other hand, the T1 switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and soothing sound. While the Mountain Top switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, the T1 switch offers a stepped and polished experience. Both switches have their own characteristics that cater to different preferences and 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
67g
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
Nylon
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 Durock T1, it is evident that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel from both switches.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the Durock T1 differ significantly. The Mountain Top uses nylon for its top housing, while the T1 opts for polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the T1 produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the duller and rounder sound of nylon. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall look of the switch.
The contrasting top housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the Durock T1 highlight how the choice of material can significantly impact the sound profile of a switch. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the difference in material for the top housing results in distinct sound characteristics. The softer nature of nylon in the Mountain Top creates a more muffled sound, whereas the stiffer polycarbonate of the T1 produces a clearer and more resonant sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials will come down to personal preference for sound and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is evident that the Mountain Top has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the T1. The Mountain Top requires 40 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. On the other hand, the T1 has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mountain Top would be the better choice, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the T1. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Durock T1 tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Mountain Top switch will require less distance to actuate when pressed compared to the T1 switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Mountain Top switch due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Durock T1 switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches provide different tactile experiences based on their travel distance, so selecting the right one ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 that balances actuation force and sound level, making it suitable for various environments and skill levels. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch provides a low-pitched sound with a moderate actuation force, giving a mellower tone that might be preferred by those looking for a quieter typing experience. Both switches can deliver a pleasant sound depending on the setup of your keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience with a mild and subtle resistance, offering a comfortable and responsive feel for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished, offering a two-stage tactile feedback that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, with a smooth and refined typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, albeit with different tactile feedback profiles for users to choose from based on their preferences.
Overall, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mountain Top switch caters to a quiet and bouncy typing experience suitable for office environments, the T1 switch provides a low-pitched sound and a stepped, accented tactile feedback for a more nuanced typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer reliable performance and comfort for users, allowing them to choose based on their personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch or the Durock T1 tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a light and quiet typing experience for professional settings, the Gateron Mountain Top switch with its bouncy, easy-to-press, and subtle feel might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a comfortable typing experience characterized by a medium bump and low-pitched sound, the Durock T1 switch with its stepped, accented, and polished feel could be the perfect fit. Keep in mind these differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your decision, and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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