HMX Jelly vs. Gateron Jupiter Red

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Jelly and Gateron Jupiter Red both present compelling options for users seeking a linear typing experience, yet they cater to different preferences and priorities. The HMX Jelly stands out with its low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature that many users find satisfying, coupled with a super smooth keystroke thanks to its excellent factory lube and a lightweight 42g actuation force, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a softer touch while typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red offers a medium-heavy actuation force, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback, which can enhance the overall typing experience for those who favor a firmer keystroke. Additionally, the Jupiter Red's high-precision molds contribute to a seamless, consistent keystroke, while its softer backlight effects appeal to users who enjoy a visually striking keyboard setup. While both switches are linear and prioritize smoothness, the distinct sound profile and actuation force of each can significantly influence personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Jelly Linear

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$2.80 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches, one can observe a distinct contrast primarily in their top housings. The Jelly switch utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Nylon's sound-absorbing qualities give the Jelly a more muted and rounded auditory experience, resulting in a typing experience that many users find satisfying and less harsh. In contrast, the Jupiter Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and leads to a higher-pitched, crisper sound profile. This characteristic makes the Gateron switch more resonant and clear, especially beneficial for users who prefer a brighter feedback during typing. Therefore, the choice of housing material significantly influences the auditory feedback and overall tactile experience of each switch.

When examining the bottom housings of both switches, one finds an interesting similarity: both the Jelly and the Jupiter Red use nylon for their bottom housings. This commonality allows both switches to share a deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out. Nylon's properties contribute to a more muted sound, effectively absorbing vibrations and giving the user a rounder auditory feedback in this aspect. Thus, despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches provide a consistent lower sound quality, which can lead to a cohesive typing experience overall. Users may appreciate that while the top housing alters the sound during release, both switches will feel more similar in terms of bottoming out, thanks to the use of nylon in the bottom portion.

Moreover, the combined effects of the differing top housing materials lead to unique experiences when typing. The Jelly's nylon top generates a softer sound on release, complementing its nylon bottom and forming a deeper, more cohesive sound profile throughout. In contrast, the Jupiter Red, with its polycarbonate top, creates a sharper sound during release paired with the softer bottom, resulting in an interesting auditory balance. This split in materials proves that while the bottom housing significantly affects the bottom-out feel and sound, the top substantially influences the release sound. Ultimately, users seeking specific auditory feedback in their typing experience will find that the differences in top housing materials substantially separate the two switches, although the nylon presence in the bottom housings creates a common sound characteristic for both when pressed down.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch with the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX Jelly features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial feel during typing. This difference in force means that the Jelly switch is lighter overall, making it easier to type for longer durations without fatigue, while the Jupiter Red caters to users who appreciate a firmer resistance. Thus, if you're looking for a keyboard switch experience, these differences highlight how each switch aligns with different user preferences for typing and gaming.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, the Jelly measures 3.8 mm while the Jupiter Red measures 4 mm. This makes the Jelly the shorter option, providing a crisper and more responsive feel, which is often preferred by gamers who seek faster response times. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red, with its longer travel distance, offers a more pronounced tactile experience that some users may find more satisfying, especially for tasks requiring a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference: those who favor quick, snappy actions may lean towards the Jelly, while those who appreciate a more substantial keystroke may opt for the Jupiter Red.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Jelly and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches, distinct differences emerge. The Jelly switch is particularly noted for its low-pitched and deep thocky sound signature, lending itself well to a more pronounced acoustic experience that many enthusiasts find satisfying. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red offers what can be described as a neutral sound profile that is moderate and less intrusive. This makes the Jupiter Red versatile for various environments, whether at home or in the office, as it won’t draw unnecessary attention while typing. However, it’s essential to consider that the overall sound produced by both switches can vary depending on the keyboard's build and keycap material.

In terms of feel, the Jelly switch is characterized by a silky smoothness attributed to its excellent factory lubrication and lightweight design with a 42g actuation force. This quality provides a pleasant tactile experience with minimal resistance, making it an enjoyable switch for prolonged typing sessions. Conversely, the Jupiter Red switches boast various qualities such as polish, creaminess, and a silky texture, resulting in a refined typing experience that emphasizes smooth key travel. The medium-heavy actuation of the Jupiter Red lends itself to a confident typing experience, striking a balance between precision and comfort, which also complements its smooth operation.

In conclusion, both the HMX Jelly and Gateron Jupiter Red switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Jelly switch offers a deep, thocky sound and an exceptionally smooth feel, ideal for those who prioritize acoustic feedback and a featherlight touch. Meanwhile, the Jupiter Red provides a more neutral sound and emphasizes a polished typing experience that is equally enjoyable and versatile across various environments. Ultimately, whether you gravitate toward the Jelly's thockiness or the Jupiter Red's balanced approach, both switches offer excellent characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a lighter switch that offers a tactile thocky sound and excels in providing a smooth typing feel, the Jelly switch may be your ideal choice. Its lower actuation force of 42 grams makes it suitable for those who favor a softer touch and might be especially appealing for gaming scenarios where speed is crucial. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more balanced experience with a medium weight and a polished, creamy feel, the Jupiter Red could be the better option. With a 60-gram bottom out force, it provides a more substantial typing experience and may be preferred for lengthy typing sessions or professional use where a consistent and neutral sound profile is desirable. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a lightweight, thocky sound versus a more robust, all-around typing experience that remains buttery smooth.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Jelly Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more