Gateron Mountain Top vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch to the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it becomes apparent that both offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The Mountain Top switch from Gateron is ideal for office environments, providing a quiet yet tactile typing experience that is perfect for discreet and continuous typing. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch offers a smooth and high-pitched typing experience, with a focus on RGB lighting customization. While the Mountain Top switch is characterized by its bouncy and subtle feel, the WS Aurora Clear switch is known for its buttery and polished keystrokes. Both switches have their own strengths, but ultimately the choice between them will depend on individual preferences. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Mountain Top and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Mountain Top features a nylon top housing, which creates a deep and full sound when typing. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear utilizes a polycarbonate top housing to produce a sharper and crisper sound. While both materials have their own distinct sound profiles, the nylon housing of the Mountain Top absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, whereas the polycarbonate housing of the WS Aurora Clear is stiffer and leads to a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of the housing materials used for the bottom housing, the Gateron Mountain Top has a nylon bottom housing, which also contributes to the deep and full sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear features a UHWMPE bottom housing, offering a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Both materials bring their own unique qualities to the switch, with nylon providing a softer plastic that absorbs more sound and UHWMPE offering a newer material for switch housings with a bright sound profile.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Mountain Top and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear differ in material, the impact of each housing on the sound profile is recognizable. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, whether typing on the Mountain Top with nylon housing or the WS Aurora Clear with polycarbonate and UHWMPE housing, users can expect a unique and enjoyable typing experience with distinct sound profiles based on the specific housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, it is clear that the Mountain Top is lighter in both aspects. The Mountain Top has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear is heavier, with an actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference - those looking for a lighter touch may prefer the Mountain Top, while those seeking a more substantial push may opt for the WS Aurora Clear. In either case, users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and performance.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Mountain Top has a shorter travel distance compared to the WS Aurora Clear. The difference may seem slight, but it can affect the feel and responsiveness of the keys when typing or gaming. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Mountain Top for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the WS Aurora Clear. Overall, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distances, and choosing between them depends on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00.
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, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch provides a neutral typing experience with a moderate sound profile, suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch offers a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct auditory feedback. Both switches offer different sound profiles, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference and the surrounding environment in which they will be used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience that is gentle on the fingers and reduces fatigue during extended use. The WS Aurora Clear switch, on the other hand, provides a buttery and polished keystroke sensation with minimal friction and smooth key travel. While both switches offer a smooth typing experience, the Gateron switch emphasizes a lively and responsive feel, while the WS Aurora switch focuses on a refined and uniform keystroke sensation.
Overall, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is tailored for a discreet and professional typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a bouncy feel, making it ideal for office environments. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear linear switch caters to those who prefer a high-pitched sound and a buttery, polished typing feel with maximum RGB lighting customization. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetic customization options.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you seek a switch that provides a quiet and discreet typing experience with light actuation, the Mountain Top is your best bet, especially if you work in a professional setting. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the WS Aurora Clear is the way to go. Additionally, if you appreciate a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, the Mountain Top is ideal, whereas if you prefer a buttery and polished typing sensation, the WS Aurora Clear is more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences and the context in which you plan to use the keyboard.
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