Gateron Mountain Top vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gateron Type L linear switches, it ultimately comes down to the specific needs and preferences of the user. The Mountain Top switch is ideal for office environments, offering a quiet typing experience with a light actuation that is perfect for professional settings. On the other hand, the Type L switch from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" focuses on blending classic travel distances with modern lubing practices, resulting in a lighter touch and a deeper sound profile. While the Mountain Top switch prioritizes discretion and subtlety, the Type L switch leans towards a feathery touch and a more subdued sound. However, to fully understand which switch would best suit your needs, it is important to delve deeper into the specifics of each switch.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gateron Type L switches feature nylon top and bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing materials means that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound output when using either switch.
While both switches share the same nylon housing materials, the distribution of these materials differs between the Mountain Top and the Type L. In switches where the top and bottom housings are different, the qualities of the housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This subtle variation in housing design affects the overall typing experience for each switch.
Overall, the Gateron Mountain Top and Gateron Type L switches offer a similar typing experience due to their shared nylon housing materials. The softness of nylon helps to create a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing, resulting in a satisfying auditory feedback for users. Whether pressing down on a key or releasing it, the nylon housing of these switches contributes to a consistent and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Mountain Top and Type L switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. The Mountain Top has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, both of which are on the lighter side. The similarity in forces between the two switches means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the amount of force required. However, for those who prefer a slightly lighter touch, the Type L may be the better option, while those who favor a bit more resistance might find the Mountain Top more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Gateron Type L linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In terms of travel distance, the Type L has a longer distance compared to the Mountain Top. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered to be the most traditional, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Mountain Top a popular choice. However, some may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer the more substantial feel of the Type L switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00, whereas the Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70.
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 Type L switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes whether you are a beginner or advanced user. The Mountain Top provides a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience, while the Type L veers towards a more subdued sound that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. The sound produced by these switches also depends on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Mountain Top offers a bouncy and easy-to-press experience, with mild and snappy characteristics that make typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is described as feathery and easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance during key presses and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer a light typing feel that caters to a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, while the Gateron Mountain Top and Type L switches may have slight differences in sound and feel, both switches provide a quality typing experience suitable for professional environments and extended use. Whether you prefer a more subdued sound signature or a bouncier typing feel, both switches offer similar qualities that can cater to various preferences and typing styles, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers or experienced users alike.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that is specifically engineered for office environments and provides a quiet yet tactile typing experience, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch would be a great choice with its bottom out force of 50 grams. However, if you prefer a switch that is part of a modern innovation project, offers a light actuation force of 45 grams, and delivers a sound signature towards the deeper end of the spectrum, then the Gateron Type L linear switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience and sound profile to ensure you make the right choice for your mechanical keyboard needs.
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