Gateron Mountain Top vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options come to mind: the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gateron Type S, both linear switches with their own unique qualities. The Mountain Top switch is ideal for office environments, providing a quiet yet tactile typing experience that is perfect for professionals seeking discretion. On the other hand, the Type S switch, with its 65g bottom-out weight, offers a heavier keystroke for those who prefer a more robust feel. While the Mountain Top switch is characterized as 'bouncy', 'easy-to-press', 'mild', 'snappy', and 'subtle', the Type S switch is categorized as 'neutral' and 'subdued'. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gateron Type S utilize nylon as their housing material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound experience for users of both switches. This commonality in material choice ensures that users can expect similar acoustics and tactile feedback from both the Mountain Top and Type S switches.
While the nylon top housing of both the Mountain Top and Type S contributes to the overall sound profile of the switches, the difference lies in their bottom housing material. The Mountain Top features a nylon bottom housing, which impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. In contrast, the Type S utilizes a different material for its bottom housing, which may result in a slightly different typing experience in terms of sound and feel when compared to the Mountain Top. Despite this distinction, both switches maintain the deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon housing materials.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches allows for a unique typing experience with each switch variant. While the Type S may offer a slight variation in sound and feel due to its different bottom housing material compared to the Mountain Top, the overall qualities of nylon housing still shine through in both switches. Whether it is the impact of the bottom housing on bottom-out sound or the influence of the top housing on sound when releasing a key, users can expect a consistent and enjoyable typing experience from either the Gateron Mountain Top or the Gateron Type S.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is evident that the Mountain Top is lighter in terms of both forces compared to the Type S. The Mountain Top has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Type S has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Mountain Top provides a softer and easier typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Type S offers a slightly heavier and more substantial typing feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Gateron Type S linear switch which has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Mountain Top switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Type S switch might suit those who prefer a deeper key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for. Both switches offer a different feel due to their varied travel distances, but they both provide quality performance in their own right.
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 S 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
When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gateron Type S switches are categorized as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound when pressed, making them suitable for various environments and users. Additionally, the Mountain Top switch is noted for its subdued sound, offering a more gentle and quieter typing experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Type S switch leans towards a deeper acoustic experience while still maintaining a neutral sound signature. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches may vary based on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Mountain Top is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle. These qualities indicate that typing on the Mountain Top switch provides a lively and responsive experience with gentle resistance and a light typing feel. In contrast, information on the feel of the Gateron Type S switch is not provided, but considering its 65g bottom-out weight and balanced sound profile, it may offer a more substantial and satisfying keystroke compared to the Mountain Top switch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Mountain Top and Type S linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mountain Top switch prioritizes a quieter and comfortable typing experience suitable for office environments, the Type S switch provides a weightier keystroke and a more modern approach to traditional switches. Depending on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, choosing between these two switches will ultimately depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, both switches are likely to provide a similar level of overall quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that provides a light and quiet typing experience suitable for office environments, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch with its 50g bottom out force would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a deeper sound profile, the Gateron Type S linear switch with its 65g bottom out force is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound signature in order to enhance your overall typing experience.
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