Gateron Mountain Top vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch to the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, some key differences emerge. The Mountain Top switch, with its emphasis on quiet typing in office environments, offers a bouncy and easy-to-press feel with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch from Outemu caters to gamers and typists seeking speediness and responsiveness with its light actuation force. While the Mountain Top switch is ideal for professional settings, the Yellow Silver switch is tailored towards those who prioritize quick reactions in their typing or gaming experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Yellow Silver, one can see a clear contrast in the sound profiles they produce. The Mountain Top's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Yellow Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound because of its stiffer plastic composition, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Furthermore, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to its functionality.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings of these switches, both the Mountain Top and the Yellow Silver utilize nylon material. This means that both switches will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile when typing, as the nylon material's softness absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that the user experience in terms of sound will be comparable between the two switches, with the difference lying mostly in the top housing material and its impact on the overall sound profile.
In understanding the role of top and bottom housing materials in switch design, it becomes clear that the properties of each type of plastic can significantly influence the sound and feel of a switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel that users experience when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when a key is released. By utilizing different materials for the top and bottom housings, switch manufacturers can tailor the sound profile of their switches to suit different preferences and usage scenarios, offering a customizable experience for end users. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials in switches like the Mountain Top and Yellow Silver can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch to the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Mountain Top is the lighter option with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Yellow Silver is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall within the light to medium-light range, making them suitable for users who prefer a smoother typing experience. Those who favor a lighter touch may lean towards the Mountain Top, allowing for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. Conversely, those who enjoy a bit more resistance may find the Yellow Silver to provide a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. This means that the Outemu Yellow Silver switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Mountain Top switch. The Mountain Top switch is on the shorter end of the spectrum with its 3.4mm travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the 4mm travel distance of the Yellow Silver switch provides a deeper and more satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key press 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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40.
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 the Outemu Yellow Silver switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making them suitable for a variety of purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or in a professional setting. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard they're used in and the keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle. These qualities provide a spring-like feedback sensation, easy key presses with minimal force required, a gentle typing experience, super responsiveness, and a gentle resistance respectively. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is not provided.
Overall, if you're looking for a linear switch with a neutral sound profile, both the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Yellow Silver could provide similar results in terms of sound. However, if you're also considering the feel of the switch, the Gateron Mountain Top offers a range of qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. It's important to consider both sound and feel when choosing the right switch for your needs.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch or the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a switch that is designed for office environments, providing a quiet and light typing experience, then the Gateron Mountain Top switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer or typist who values speediness and responsiveness, then the Outemu Yellow Silver switch with its light actuation force may be more suited to your needs. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them versatile options for a variety of users. In the end, it is important to consider how you will be using the keyboard and what features are most important to you in order to make the best decision for your typing experience.
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