Gateron Mountain Top vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch. The Gateron Mountain Top switch is tailored for office use, offering a quiet typing experience with a light actuation force. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea switch doesn't have a specific focus but is known for its tactile feedback. The Mountain Top switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, neutral, snappy, and subtle, while the Milk Tea switch is not categorized with any specific traits. Each switch has its own benefits and drawbacks, making it important to consider your 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the Outemu Milk Tea, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their top housing. Nylon is known for creating a deep and full sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to their top housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gateron Mountain Top continues to use nylon, while the Outemu Milk Tea switches to a nylon bottom housing. This means that the Gateron Mountain Top will maintain the same deep and full sound profile as the top housing, thanks to the nylon material. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea switches to a brighter sound signature with its nylon bottom housing, offering resonant clacks when typing. This difference in bottom housing materials will result in distinct typing experiences between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both the Gateron Mountain Top and Outemu Milk Tea share a nylon top housing, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Gateron Mountain Top will provide a consistent deep and full sound profile throughout typing, while the Outemu Milk Tea will offer a combination of deep and full sounds from the top housing and resonant clacks from the bottom housing. Ultimately, the housing materials play a significant role in the overall typing experience of each switch.
Weight
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Gateron Mountain Top requires 50 grams to bottom out, while the Outemu Milk Tea's bottom out force is unknown. Both switches are ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, with the Mountain Top being slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out force. For those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Milk Tea may provide a slightly more tactile experience due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Mountain Top has a shorter travel distance compared to the Milk Tea. A shorter travel distance like the Mountain Top's is favored by gamers seeking faster response times, while a longer travel distance like the Milk Tea's may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend 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 Outemu Milk Tea comes in at $3.10.
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 provides a neutral typing experience with a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various settings, including offices. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. This means that while using the Gateron Mountain Top switch, you can expect a moderate sound level that is ideal for professional environments.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience, with a mild overall feel that is comfortable and minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The switch is also described as snappy and subtle, providing a responsive feel while maintaining a gentle resistance. On the other hand, there is no available information on the feel of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, making it challenging to compare the two in this aspect. However, based on the descriptions provided, the Gateron Mountain Top switch offers a range of qualities that enhance the typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is designed with an emphasis on providing a quiet and subtle typing experience suited for office environments, with a moderate sound profile and a bouncy yet easy-to-press feel. While information about the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is limited, users can expect similar results in sound and feel by choosing the Gateron Mountain Top switch for a reliable and comfortable typing experience. Remember that factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you work in a professional setting that requires quiet and discreet typing, the Mountain Top switch may be the better choice for you. Its light actuation force and subtle sound profile make it suitable for office environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a different feel or sound profile, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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