Gateron Mountain Top vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gazzew U4Tx. The Mountain Top by Gateron is a linear switch designed for office environments, providing a quiet typing experience with a light actuation that is ideal for professional settings. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx offers a tactile typing experience with a satisfying bump and a refined sound profile that combines the best of both worlds. Both switches have their unique qualities 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
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gazzew U4Tx both offer a deep and full sound profile due to their softness. The Mountain Top uses nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for both housings, known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. In terms of sound quality, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials.
While the Mountain Top and U4Tx share similarities in their housing materials and resulting sound profiles, they also have differences worth noting. The Mountain Top's nylon top housing is known for creating a deeper sound when pressing down on a key, while the U4Tx's Gazzew blend top housing may have a different impact on the sound when releasing a key. Additionally, the bottom housing of each switch plays a role in the bottom-out sound and feel, with the nylon bottom housing of the Mountain Top and the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx contributing to the overall typing experience in their own distinct ways.
Overall, the choice between the housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the Gazzew U4Tx may come down to personal preference and the specific sound profile desired. Both switches offer a deep and full sound experience, with the Mountain Top's nylon housing providing a duller and rounder sound, while the U4Tx's Gazzew blend housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile. Whether typing on the Mountain Top or the U4Tx, users can expect a satisfying tactile typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and light typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a medium bottom out force of 62.5 grams, offering a more substantial push feel. The actuation force of the U4Tx is unknown, making it difficult to compare directly to the Mountain Top in that aspect. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Mountain Top may be the preferable choice. However, for users who enjoy a more significant push feel and a more pronounced tactile response, the U4Tx would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the U4Tx has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Mountain Top. In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying depth to each keystroke. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00, whereas the Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50.
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, making it suitable for a variety of settings and users. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a bassy and muted sound, offering a deeper and richer tone with minimal noise. Depending on your preference for sound, both switches provide unique auditory experiences that can enhance your typing sessions. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch offers a bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle typing experience. These qualities make typing effortless, comfortable, and responsive, suitable for various typing preferences. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch provides a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity, giving a distinct and satisfying typing feel. Depending on your preference for key feedback, both switches offer unique sensations that can enhance your typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mountain Top switch is more neutral in sound and offers a range of gentle and responsive typing experiences, the U4Tx switch provides a bassy and muted sound with a sharp tactile bump for intense feedback. Depending on your preference for sound and key feel, both switches offer distinct advantages that can cater to your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing habits to ensure an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, you should consider your environment and typing preferences. If you are looking for a switch that is quiet and light with a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, the Mountain Top switch may be the right choice for a professional setting. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deeper, bassy sound profile and a sharp, tactile feedback, the U4Tx switch could provide a more luxurious typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound and feel that you find most appealing for your typing needs.
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