TTC Brother vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between clicky switches like the TTC Brother and linear switches like the Gateron Jupiter Red. The TTC Brother stands out with its lightweight and easy-to-press actuation of just 37g, offering a satisfyingly crunchy sound that will please clicky switch lovers. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red provides a smooth and consistent typing experience with its medium-heavy actuation and high-precision molds. While the Brother is best suited for those who enjoy a tactile and stepped typing experience, the Jupiter Red caters to individuals who prefer a polished, creamy, and silky keystroke without any tactile bump. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Gateron Jupiter Red, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting. Both switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound production and aesthetics due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the TTC Brother features a nylon material while the Gateron Jupiter Red also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite this difference in bottom housing material, both switches offer a similar typing experience with the deeper sound profile associated with nylon, providing a consistent user experience.
When considering how the top and bottom housings impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, it becomes evident that the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This division of qualities allows for a balanced typing experience, regardless of whether the switch utilizes polycarbonate or nylon for its housing materials.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, with 37 grams versus 45 grams, respectively. However, the bottom out force for the Brother switch is unknown, while the Jupiter Red switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Brother switch, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Jupiter Red switch. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences based on actuation and bottom out force, catering to varying preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Jupiter Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Brother switch. In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, so it is important to consider what you value most in a switch before making a decision.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
The Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a satisfyingly crunchy experience, synonymous with classic clicky switches, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile that is moderate and suitable for various typing environments. Sound preference ultimately depends on personal taste and can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard build and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Brother clicky switch offers an easy-to-press experience with a gentle resistance, making typing effortless and comfortable. It also features a stepped design, providing a subtle tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing feel. It also has creamy and silky characteristics, providing a buttery sensation when typing. The mild characteristics of the Jupiter Red switch make it approachable to most users, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for various preferences.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brother switch provides a crisp and tactile typing experience with a crunchy sound signature, the Jupiter Red switch offers a smooth and polished feel with creamy and silky characteristics. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you enjoy a light and tactile typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, the Brother switch is the way to go. Its easy-to-press actuation and stepped tactile bump will enhance your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and consistent keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Jupiter Red switch is the better option. Its polished finish and creamy typing feel make it a top choice for those seeking a refined typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a clicky and tactile feel (Brother) or a smooth and linear typing experience (Jupiter Red).
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