TTC Honey vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Honey and Gateron Jupiter Brown stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The TTC Honey is a linear switch known for its smooth and creamy feel, along with a deep and pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that offers a blend of tradition and innovation with a single-stage spring for a classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight. While the Honey is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', and 'Frictionless', the Jupiter Brown is categorized as 'Mild', 'Polished', and 'Stepped'. Both switches have their unique advantages, whether you prefer a smoother linear feel or a tactile response. 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
42g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Gateron Jupiter Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, the bottom housings differ with the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing maintaining the same characteristics as the top housing, while the Jupiter Brown's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
The difference in bottom housing materials between the Honey and the Jupiter Brown results in a contrast in the sound profile when pressing down on the switches. The Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. In comparison, the Jupiter Brown's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, enhancing the typing experience with a rounder sound. The top housing material also plays a role in the sound when releasing a key, with both switches featuring polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Gateron Jupiter Brown depends on the desired sound profile for the keyboard. If a sharper, higher-pitched sound is preferred, the polycarbonate housing of the Honey may be a better option. On the other hand, if a deeper and fuller sound is preferred, the nylon housing of the Jupiter Brown would be the more suitable choice. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, providing users with different typing experiences depending on their preferences.
Weight
The TTC Honey linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches highlights the varying preferences of users when it comes to the weight of key presses. Ultimately, those seeking a lighter typing experience may opt for the Honey switch, while those desiring a heavier push feel may gravitate towards the Jupiter Brown switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch is shorter at 3.8 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch. While both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances, the Honey offers a slightly quicker keypress due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Honey for its faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Jupiter Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 TTC Honey linear switch offers a subdued and dampened sound when pressed, providing a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is not explicitly described, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Honey linear switch is best known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. Additionally, these switches provide a subtle and polished feel, enhancing the overall typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is described as mild, polished, and stepped, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience with a smooth and refined finish.
Overall, both the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offer unique and high-quality characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Honey switch excels in providing a smooth and creamy feel with a subdued sound profile, the Jupiter Brown switch offers a more traditional tactile experience with a medium-heavy weight. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of overall quality and performance.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter key press with a smooth and creamy typing experience, then the TTC Honey linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy key press with a traditional yet innovative tactile feel that offers a more classic keystroke experience, then the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch would be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to see which aligns best with your preferences. Remember, the switch you choose can significantly impact your typing experience, so choose wisely based on what feels most comfortable and satisfying to you.
Mentioned in this article
