Gateron Mountain Top vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch to the TKC Tangerine linear switch, we find two distinct options catering to different preferences. The Mountain Top switch by Gateron is ideal for office environments, offering a quiet yet tactile typing experience with light actuation. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch boasts an exceptionally smooth feel, enhanced by UHWMPE housings for a satisfying typing experience. While the Mountain Top switch focuses on subtlety and discretion, the Tangerine switch provides a more luxurious and polished typing feel. 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
62g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mountain Top and TKC Tangerine switches both feature unique housing materials that impact the sound and feel of typing. The Mountain Top uses a nylon top and bottom housing, known for its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for both the top and bottom housing, offering a bright sound signature with resonant clacks while typing. Despite their differences, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their distinct housing materials.
While the Mountain Top and Tangerine switches share a common goal of improving the typing sound profile, their housing materials provide different characteristics. The nylon housing of the Mountain Top creates a softer and fuller sound, ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the UHWMPE housing of the Tangerine offers a brighter and more resonant sound, appealing to users who prefer a more lively typing feel. These contrasting properties make each switch unique in its own right, catering to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
In terms of construction, the Gateron Mountain Top and TKC Tangerine switches may vary in their housing materials, but their overall impact on the typing experience is quite similar. Both switches focus on enhancing the sound profile through their housing materials, whether it be the deep and fuller sound of the nylon in the Mountain Top or the bright and resonant clacks of the UHWMPE in the Tangerine. Ultimately, choosing between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as each offers a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, we can see some key differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Mountain Top has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Tangerine has a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, but an unknown actuation force. The lighter actuation force of the Mountain Top may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Tangerine's heavier bottom out force may cater to individuals who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately boils down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out force preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, we find that the Mountain Top has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Tangerine has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The 3.4 mm travel distance of the Mountain Top offers a quicker response time which is highly sought after by gamers looking for fast keystrokes. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Tangerine provides a deeper key press that may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00, whereas the TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30.
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 experience, with a moderate actuation force and sound profile suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch produces a high-pitched, crisp sound, which may appeal to those who prefer a sharper tone while typing. Each switch contributes to the overall sound by the board and keycaps chosen, influencing the auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press sensation with a mild and subtle typing experience. This switch offers a lively feel with gentle resistance, making typing effortless and comfortable. In contrast, the TKC Tangerine switch offers a frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, providing an extremely smooth and refined typing experience with minimal resistance and friction. These switches elevate the typing experience through their unique tactile qualities, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, while the Gateron Mountain Top and TKC Tangerine linear switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles, both switches excel in their respective domains. For those seeking a neutral, bouncy typing experience with a moderate sound profile, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is a solid choice. On the other hand, if a high-pitched, frictionless, and buttery typing experience is preferred, the TKC Tangerine switch is a great option. Ultimately, the selection between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring an enhanced typing experience tailored to personal tastes.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider the specific environment and preferences in which you will be using the keyboard. If you are looking for a switch that provides a quiet typing experience suitable for professional settings, the Mountain Top switch may be the ideal choice with its light actuation force and neutral sound profile. On the other hand, if you prioritize smooth and effortless keystrokes with a high-pitched sound profile, the Tangerine switch could enhance your typing experience with its UHWMPE housings and frictionless feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual needs and preferences to ensure the best typing experience possible.
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