TTC Gold Pink vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Jupiter Red, both linear switches. The Gold Pink is renowned for its 37g actuation force, offering a light and effortless typing experience ideal for rapid typing or gaming. With a satisfying clacky sound, these switches provide a lively feel. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red boasts a smooth keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, thanks to its single-stage spring design. Known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red provides a seamless and consistent typing experience. While the Gold Pink offers a 'Buttery', 'Mild', and 'Feathery' feel, the Jupiter Red is described as 'Polished', 'Creamy', and 'Silky'. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on your preference for actuation force and typing feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Jupiter Red feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. This similarity in housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent sound profile and aesthetic appeal from both switches.
However, a key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their nylon bottom housings. The Gold Pink utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of the plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red also features a nylon bottom housing, which similarly contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, emphasizing the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the switch.
Ultimately, the contrasting bottom housing materials of nylon in both the TTC Gold Pink and the Gateron Jupiter Red provide users with distinct typing experiences. While the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housing has a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether you prefer the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate or the deeper sound profile of nylon, both switches offer a blend of qualities that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Pink is lighter in both aspects. The Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who enjoy a heavier touch. This means that while both switches may provide a smooth linear typing experience, the Gold Pink offers a lighter touch compared to the Jupiter Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Gold Pink being suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing feel, and the Jupiter Red being more suited for those who prefer a heavier keystroke.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and typing experience with both switches. Despite being equal in travel distance, the Gold Pink and Jupiter Red switches may still have minor differences in terms of actuation force, smoothness, and overall feeling when typing. However, when it comes to the travel distance specifically, both switches offer a consistent and standard 4 mm distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 Gold Pink switch is best described as having a clacky sound that offers a satisfying level of feedback, providing a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is noted for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of typing tasks, whether for beginners or more advanced users, at home or in a work setting. The sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Pink switch is known for its buttery and feathery qualities, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience with little exertion needed. This switch provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is described as having a polished and creamy feel, providing a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. These switches offer a silky typing sensation, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Pink and Gateron Jupiter Red switches offer distinct qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Gold Pink switch delivers a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, while the Jupiter Red switch provides a smooth and refined typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, you should consider your preference for actuation force and typing experience. If you prioritize a lighter actuation force and a lively typing experience with a clacky sound, the Gold Pink switch with its 45g bottom out force and 37g actuation force is the ideal choice for fast and effortless typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Jupiter Red switch with its 60g bottom out force and single-stage spring is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you want to achieve.