TTC Gold Brown vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Jupiter Brown mechanical keyboard switches, the key difference lies in their unique characteristics and performance. The Gold Browns offer a balanced typing experience with a slight, satisfying bump and moderate weightiness, making them ideal for users seeking a tactile switch with a softer sound profile. On the other hand, the Jupiter Browns blend tradition with innovation by featuring a single-stage spring for a classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight, along with enhanced softer backlight effects for aesthetic appeal. Both switches excel in their respective categories, providing users with a choice between a 'Buttery' and 'Accented' experience with the Gold Browns or a 'Stepped' and 'Polished' feel with the Jupiter Browns. 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
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Jupiter Brown, it's clear that they both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that creates a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their nylon bottom housings. The Gold Brown utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a rounder and duller sound compared to polycarbonate.
Despite the differences in the bottom housing material, both the Gold Brown and the Jupiter Brown switches offer a similar experience when it comes to their top housings. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches creates a sharp and crisp sound profile that is especially effective for those looking to enhance their typing experience with RGB lighting. However, where the distinction lies is in how the bottom housing material impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch. With nylon being softer and more sound-absorbent, the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key.
In essence, while the Gold Brown and the Jupiter Brown switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, their nylon bottom housings provide a slightly different typing experience. Both switches offer a sharp and resonant sound profile thanks to their polycarbonate top housings, but the Gold Brown's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the Gateron Jupiter Brown's nylon bottom housing results in a duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch both have an actuation force of 55 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Brown requires 63 grams while the Jupiter Brown requires 70 grams, making the Jupiter Brown the heavier option. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Gold Brown may be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Jupiter Brown for its heavier bottom out force. Overall, both switches offer a tactile typing experience with the main difference being the weight of pressure required for bottoming out.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown and Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switches both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that they will provide a similar level of keypress feedback and actuation feel since they both require the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Despite any other differences between the two switches, their travel distance remains consistent, ensuring that users will experience a similar typing experience with either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 the sound of the TTC Gold Brown and Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switches, they both offer a relatively neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. While the Gold Brown has a softer and more rounded sound, the Jupiter Brown aims to provide a classic keystroke feel with enhanced backlight effects. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors, including the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gold Brown and Jupiter Brown switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Gold Brown switch is described as buttery and accented, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke with a moderate bump, while the Jupiter Brown switch is noted for its polished feel, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Jupiter Brown switch is described as having a stepped feel, providing a more subtle tactile sensation compared to more pronounced tactile switches.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Brown and Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switches offer a balanced and tactile typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. While the Gold Brown may have a softer sound profile and emphasize the satisfying bump, the Jupiter Brown combines a classic keystroke feel with enhanced backlight effects. Depending on your preference for sound, feel, and aesthetic appeal, either switch can provide a reliable and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, both switches would yield similar results in terms of providing a comfortable and tactile typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, you should consider the key differences in bottom out force and key characteristics. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a balanced typing experience with a moderate bump, the Gold Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a blend of tradition and innovation with a classic keystroke feel, the Jupiter Brown might be the switch that suits your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for key feel, sound profile, and typing experience.
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