Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the TKC Kiwi both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Brown switches are known for their classic tactile feel and medium-heavy weight, providing a traditional keystroke experience with a touch of innovation. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switches are designed to enhance typing with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, delivering a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. While the Jupiter Browns are ideal for those looking for a blend of tradition and innovation, the Kiwi switches are perfect for individuals seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Brown and TKC Kiwi switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Jupiter Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing, known for its bright sound signature. While the Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate material offers a more resonant sound profile, the Kiwi's UHWMPE material provides a unique typing experience with resonant clacks.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Jupiter Brown features a classic nylon housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi incorporates UHWMPE for its bottom housing, offering a bright sound signature that enhances the typing experience with resonant clacks. Both materials bring their own unique qualities to the switches, with nylon providing a duller and rounder sound while UHWMPE offers a more impactful and resonant typing experience.
Overall, while the Jupiter Brown and TKC Kiwi switches have different housing materials for both the top and bottom, they each bring distinct characteristics to the typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a mix of sharp, crisp sounds and resonant clacks when typing. Whether you prefer the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate in the Jupiter Brown or the bright sound signature of UHWMPE in the TKC Kiwi, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of around 70 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel overall. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the TKC Kiwi for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Gateron Jupiter Brown may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback and are suitable for different preferences based on actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when typing on a keyboard equipped with either switch, users will experience a consistent key press feel and actuation point. The similarities in travel distance suggest that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of key travel, making them equally suitable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a tactile typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80, whereas the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00.
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 Gateron Jupiter Brown switch offers a traditional medium-heavy keystroke feel without providing specific details on the sound profile. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which offers a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various typing environments. Both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Kiwi switch delivering a snappy sound that enhances the overall immersion.
When it comes to feel, both the Jupiter Brown and TKC Kiwi switches exhibit stepped characteristics, providing a two-stage tactile feedback that is more mild compared to hyper-tactile switches. The Jupiter Brown switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Kiwi switch is also polished and stepped, but with an added emphasis on accentuated tactility that falls between subtle and overwhelming. This blend of characteristics in both switches suggests a comfortable and refined typing feel that appeals to a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and TKC Kiwi switches offer slightly different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Brown leans towards a classic keystroke feel with unspecified sound characteristics, the Kiwi provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile along with accented tactility for a more pronounced typing experience. Both switches feature a stepped design and a polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel and comfortable typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback, but either option is likely to deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch or the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a more classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, the Jupiter Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, along with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the Kiwi could be the better option. Both switches offer their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, choose the switch that best suits your typing preferences and enhances your overall typing experience.
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