Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3

Overview

When choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 mechanical keyboard switches, you will encounter the decision between a tactile switch and a linear switch. The Jupiter Browns offer a classic tactile typing experience with medium-heavy weight and softer backlight effects, making them a reliable and aesthetically pleasing option for users who enjoy traditional keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 switches provide a clacky and high-pitched sound signature accompanied by a silky typing experience and enhanced RGB illumination through a light diffuser. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, catering to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

Everglide Lightning Silver V3 Linear

$2.80 per 10

$5.55

$4.10 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the Jupiter Brown also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon which absorbs more sound, creating a duller tone. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 has a polycarbonate bottom housing which shares the same characteristics as the top housing in terms of sound profile and stiffness.

When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. For the Jupiter Brown with its nylon bottom housing, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Lightning Silver V3 will share the sharp and crisp sound profile of the top housing. The top housing, on the other hand, will have a more prominent effect on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom of a switch can significantly impact the overall typing experience.

In conclusion, while both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Everglide Lightning Silver V3 feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and resonant sound profile, their differences lie in the bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Jupiter Brown creates a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the continued use of polycarbonate in the Lightning Silver V3 for consistency in sound quality. Ultimately, the choice between these two keyboards will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing experience based on the housing materials used.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Brown is heavier than the Lightning Silver V3 in both aspects. The Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium category. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Lightning Silver V3, which allows for longer typing sessions and smoother keystrokes. Meanwhile, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Jupiter Brown for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is clear that the Jupiter Brown has a longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the Lightning Silver V3's 3.4 mm. The Jupiter Brown's 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper key press feeling, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress sensation. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3's shorter 3.4 mm travel distance provides a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking fast keystroke actuation. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preferences; those who value a deeper keypress may opt for the Jupiter Brown, while those prioritizing speed and responsiveness may choose the Lightning Silver V3. Ultimately, the shorter travel distance of the Lightning Silver V3 may result in quicker typing speeds, while the Jupiter Brown's longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying tactile experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offers a more traditional and mellow typing experience, with a focus on reliable performance over auditory flair. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch provides a more distinctive sound profile, described as clacky and high-pitched, adding a unique touch to the overall typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users may gravitate towards the Jupiter Brown for a quieter and more classic sound, or opt for the Lightning Silver V3 for a more vibrant and percussive typing sound.

In terms of feel, the Jupiter Brown tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, falling into a safe middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. With enhanced molds and a medium-heavy weight, these switches provide a refined and smooth keystroke feel, ensuring a comfortable typing session. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch is praised for its silky and seamless typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth key travel that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Users looking for a more buttery and effortless typing experience may find the Lightning Silver V3 to be a perfect match.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches excel in their own right. Users seeking a classic and reliable typing experience with a milder sound may prefer the Jupiter Brown, while those looking for a more distinctive and smooth typing feel with a clacky sound may lean towards the Lightning Silver V3. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is looking to achieve.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch or the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you appreciate a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Brown may be the ideal choice for you. Alternatively, if you enjoy a silky smooth typing experience with a light diffuser for enhanced RGB illumination and prefer a clacky, high-pitched sound signature, the Lightning Silver V3 could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Lightning Silver V3 Linear

$5.55

$4.10 per 10

Learn more