TTC Honey vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Honey and the Gateron Jupiter Red stand out for their unique characteristics. The TTC Honey is known for its smooth and creamy feel, with a deep and pleasant sound profile. It is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, featuring high-precision molds and softer backlight effects. It is categorized as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. While both switches provide a seamless typing experience, the Honey's buttery feel may appeal to those seeking a more subtle touch, while the Jupiter Red's medium-heavy actuation could be preferable for those looking for precision and consistency. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Gateron Jupiter Red, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Honey features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, while the Jupiter Red opts for a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon.
The utilization of different bottom housing materials in the TTC Honey and the Gateron Jupiter Red leads to distinct typing experiences. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey emphasizes clarity and resonance in sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Red brings a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a different tactile feedback to the user. While the top housings of both switches are made of polycarbonate, it is clear that the choice of bottom housing material plays a significant role in determining the overall feel and sound of each switch.
In terms of sound production, the choice of housing materials in the TTC Honey and the Gateron Jupiter Red plays a crucial role. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that result in a similar sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials creates distinct typing experiences. The Honey's clear and resonant sound is a result of its polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Jupiter Red's deeper and fuller sound is due to its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in each switch contributes to their unique sound profiles and typing feels.
Weight
The actuation force of the TTC Honey linear switch is 42 grams, which is lighter than the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch's actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Honey is 50 grams, while the Jupiter Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making the Jupiter Red the heavier option. The Honey switch would be more suited for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended use, such as for long work hours or gaming sessions, while the Jupiter Red switch would be better for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches have similar actuation forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the individual's preference for lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Honey linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm standard. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Honey switch with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deeper feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Jupiter Red switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key responsiveness and feel.
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 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 Honey linear switch offers a subdued sound profile, providing a dampened sound when pressed, which is not completely silent but more subtle compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement and moderate sound level, suitable for various users and environments. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Honey linear switch is known for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Additionally, the Honey switch provides a subtle and polished feel, with a refined finish for sleek typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch also provides a polished and creamy typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. The Jupiter Reds offer a silky and mild typing feel, enhancing smoothness and providing a gentle typing experience suitable for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the TTC Honey and Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches both offer smooth and polished typing experiences with subtle differences in sound and feel. While the Honey switch leans towards a more subdued sound and creamy feel, the Jupiter Red switch provides a neutral sound profile and silky sensation. Depending on personal preferences and typing needs, users can expect similar results in terms of overall performance and quality from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Honey and Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch, the TTC Honey with 50 grams bottom out force may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation, the Gateron Jupiter Red with 60 grams bottom out force could be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a smoother and creamier typing experience with a deep sound profile, the TTC Honey may be the way to go. Conversely, if you prefer a seamless and consistent keystroke with softer backlight effects, the Gateron Jupiter Red could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you desire.
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