Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Zuoce Lavender mechanical keyboard switches, one can observe distinct differences in their design and performance. The Jupiter Brown offers a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy weight, providing a traditional keystroke feel with a touch of innovation. On the other hand, the Lavender switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature, making typing a satisfying experience right out of the box. While the Jupiter Brown is ideal for those who prefer a more classic keystroke feel and medium-heavy weight, the Lavender switch is perfect for users who prioritize smoothness and a clacky sound. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Zuoce Lavender, we can see some key differences. The Jupiter Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Lavender has a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, with the Jupiter Brown offering a more clear and resonant sound, while the Lavender provides a softer and more rounded tone.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Jupiter Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound. On the flip side, the Lavender employs a POM bottom housing, which also creates a pleasing and unique deep sound profile. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer a similar deep and muted sound, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
It's important to note that while the top and bottom housing materials of these switches may vary, they both play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The qualities of each material contribute to the sound profile when pressing down on a key (bottom housing) and when releasing it (top housing). Whether you choose the Gateron Jupiter Brown with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing or the Zuoce Lavender with its POM top and bottom housing, you can expect to experience a unique and satisfying typing experience based on the specific qualities each material brings to the table.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it is evident that the Lavender has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Jupiter Brown's 55 grams. Additionally, the Lavender has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Jupiter Brown's 70 grams. The Jupiter Brown provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Lavender's lighter forces make it suitable for those who value a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on individual preference, with the Jupiter Brown being heavier and the Lavender lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Jupiter Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lavender. The difference may not be significant, but for users who prefer a deeper key press, the Jupiter Brown might be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker response times may opt for the Zuoce Lavender. Both switches offer a good balance between travel distance and tactile feedback, providing a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 Gateron Jupiter Brown switch offers a classic and medium-heavy keystroke feel with a softer backlight effect, resulting in a quieter and more traditional typing experience. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch is known for its crisp and clacky sound signature, providing a distinct and satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. Both switches will produce a different sound profile, with the Jupiter Browns leaning towards a quieter operation while the Lavenders offer a more pronounced and percussive sound.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Brown switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle tactile feedback that falls in the middle-ground zone of switch characteristics. The stepped design of the Jupiter Browns gives a subtle two-stage keystroke feel, allowing for a refined and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender switch is described as easy-to-press with minimal resistance, making typing effortless and comfortable. The smoothness of the Lavender switch right out of the box, thanks to its proprietary blend, ensures a seamless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Zuoce Lavender switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a quieter and more traditional typing experience with a medium-heavy weight, the Jupiter Brown switch is a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a crisp and clacky sound with easy-to-press key presses for a smoother typing experience, the Zuoce Lavender switch would be an excellent option. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance and aesthetic appeal, giving users a satisfying typing experience based on their individual preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a classic keystroke feel with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and exceptional smoothness with a crisp and clacky sound signature, the Lavender switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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