Bsun Pine vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and Gateron Jupiter Brown both offer unique typing experiences for users. The BSUN Pine switches are known for their sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and no-nonsense tactility that appeals to many users. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Browns offer a more traditional keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, blending tradition with innovation. Both switches have high-precision molds and enhanced backlight effects, ensuring reliable performance and aesthetic appeal. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Gateron Jupiter Brown, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the resonant sound produced. Additionally, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, allowing for RGB lighting effects to shine through. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the Pine utilizing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Jupiter Brown also incorporates nylon for a similar effect.
The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Bsun Pine and Gateron Jupiter Brown switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches made with harder plastics. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying auditory experience to users, despite any differences in their top housings.
When it comes to the impact of housing materials on the typing experience, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press. With the Bsun Pine and Gateron Jupiter Brown sharing a nylon bottom housing, users can expect a consistent depth and fullness in the sound produced when typing on either switch. On the other hand, the top housing material, in this case, polycarbonate, will influence the sound produced when releasing a key, ensuring a harmonious blend of sharpness and clarity in the overall sound profile of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Jupiter Brown is slightly heavier in both aspects. The Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a solid typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Pine switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may prefer the Jupiter Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's typing preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, making it a favorable choice for gamers seeking fast response times. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance and key press responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
The Gateron Jupiter Brown 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
When it comes to sound, the BSUN Pine switch is known for its quietness, while the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch is described as soft. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other variables like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the Pine switch is characterized as having an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback, providing a dynamic and engaging typing sensation. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown switch is described as offering a mild, polished, and stepped typing experience, which caters to those looking for a smoother and more subtle tactile feel during keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a sharp and invigorating tactile bump with distinct feedback, the Pine switch may be your top choice. However, if you prefer a more polished and mild typing experience with smoother key travel, the Jupiter Brown switch would be a great fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a sharper, invigorating keystroke with a distinct and quick bottom-out, the Pine switches with their sharp tactile bump may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more traditional keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Brown switches with their mild and polished characteristics might be more to your liking. Consider your typing preferences, sound preferences, and desired tactile feedback to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style.
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