Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown, a tactile switch, to the Gateron Jupiter Red, a linear switch, distinct differences become evident. The Jupiter Brown is known for its traditional yet innovative tactile feel, providing a medium-heavy keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red offers a smooth and seamless typing experience with consistent actuation. While the Brown switch may appeal to those seeking a more classic keystroke feel, the Red switch is a top choice for individuals looking for a consistent and uninterrupted typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Brown and Jupiter Red switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, despite both switches sharing the same top housing material, the overall typing experience may vary depending on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Jupiter Red switches utilize a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches adds to the overall typing experience by enhancing the sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Jupiter Red switches are different, with the former featuring polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, and the latter having nylon top housing and polycarbonate bottom housing, the overall typing experience is likely to still be similar. The qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Brown switch requires more force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Brown switch also requires more force at 70 grams compared to the Red switch at 60 grams. This indicates that the Brown switch provides a heavier typing experience overall. However, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy category, so if you prefer a lighter typing experience, you may opt for the Jupiter Red switch, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may choose the Jupiter Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This consistency in travel distance ensures that you will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness, regardless of whether you choose the Brown tactile or Red linear switch. Therefore, the choice between the two switches will likely come down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $2.80. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Jupiter Brown and Jupiter Red.
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 Jupiter Brown and Jupiter Red switches differ in their profiles. The Jupiter Brown switch is known for offering a sound that is mild and polished, providing a gentle and refined typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and user preferences. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Jupiter Brown and Jupiter Red switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Brown switch is known for its mild and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. Additionally, the Jupiter Brown switch is described as stepped, offering a tactile response that is more subdued compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red switch provides a creamy and silky feel, delivering a buttery smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches feature a polished finish, enhancing the overall typing feel and reducing friction for a seamless keystroke.
Overall, while the Jupiter Brown and Jupiter Red switches have their own unique sound and feel characteristics, they both offer high-quality performance and aesthetics. Whether you prefer a tactile typing experience with a traditional twist or a smooth, linear feel for consistent keystrokes, both switches from the Gateron Jupiter series deliver reliable performance and aesthetic appeal. With high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, you can expect a premium typing experience from either switch choice, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard setup meets your specific preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider your typing preferences. If you enjoy a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile feedback, the Jupiter Brown is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium bottom out force and linear actuation, the Jupiter Red would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, both switches offer high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, but the key difference lies in the tactile vs. linear typing experience they provide. Choose based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or smooth keystrokes in your mechanical keyboard setup.
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