Gateron Mountain Top vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch. The Mountain Top switch by Gateron is tailored for office environments, offering a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience with a light actuation force, perfect for professional settings that require discreet typing. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch boasts a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, striking a balance between sophistication and precise performance. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics can help you choose the best switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
37g
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
3.40 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the HMX Xinhai, it is clear that they both utilize nylon in their bottom housing. This means that when typing on switches from either of these keyboards, users can expect a similar deep and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound. The duller and rounder sound produced by nylon is a common trait shared by both switches, resulting in a familiar typing experience regardless of which keyboard is being used.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of top housing material. The Mountain Top uses nylon for its top housing, while the Xinhai opts for polycarbonate. This contrast results in a noticeable difference in sound profiles, with the polycarbonate of the Xinhai producing a sharper and higher-pitched sound compared to the deeper and fuller sound of the Mountain Top's nylon top housing. Additionally, the clear nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, offering a unique aesthetic appeal that the Mountain Top's opaque nylon housing does not provide.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Mountain Top and the HMX Xinhai will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While both switches offer a deep and fuller sound due to their shared nylon bottom housing, the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing creates a crisper and more resonant sound profile compared to the Mountain Top's softer nylon top housing. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Xinhai allows for RGB lighting effects, which may be a deciding factor for users looking to add a touch of visual flair to their keyboard setup. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between these two switches offer users a choice between a more traditional sound profile with the Mountain Top or a sharper, more visually appealing option with the Xinhai.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The Mountain Top has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Therefore, the Xinhai is slightly lighter in both categories compared to the Mountain Top. Weight is an essential factor to consider when choosing a switch, as lighter switches can be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, both switches provide a light and smooth typing experience, with the Xinhai being slightly lighter than the Mountain Top in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it is clear that both switches offer the same tactile feedback and actuation experience. Users can expect similar results when typing or gaming on either of these switches. The consistent travel distance of 3.4 mm for both switches ensures a smooth and uniform keystroke experience, making them suitable options for those who prefer a linear switch with a moderate key travel distance. Overall, the Gateron Mountain Top and the HMX Xinhai linear switches provide a familiar and comfortable typing experience thanks to their identical travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
The Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 offers a neutral profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Its quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience ensures minimal disruption in office settings. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch provides a clacky sound with a sharp and snappy quality, adding a crisp and bright element to the typing experience. Both switches offer distinctive sound profiles that can be further influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Mountain Top and the HMX Xinhai linear switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that enhances the typing experience. Additionally, the Mountain Top switch is noted for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation, while the Xinhai switch offers a creamy feel for a smooth and buttery typing experience. Both switches also boast subtle characteristics, with gentle resistance and low-impact typing feel that can be enjoyed by a wide range of users.
Overall, the Gateron Mountain Top and HMX Xinhai linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences and typing environments. While the Mountain Top switch is tailored for quiet and unobtrusive typing in professional settings, the Xinhai switch provides a clacky sound profile and creamy feel for a more distinct and luxurious typing experience. Depending on individual preferences and needs, users can expect similar results in terms of overall quality and performance from both switches.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a switch that is suitable for professional environments with a quiet typing experience, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch with its light actuation force of 50 grams is your best choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a unique acoustics profile and a crisp, higher-pitched sound, the HMX Xinhai linear switch with its even lighter 45 grams actuation force is the way to go. Consider the setting in which you'll be using your keyboard and the type of typing experience you prefer when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct advantages, so it comes down to personal preference and specific needs.
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