Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Gateron Luciola mechanical keyboard switches, two distinct options emerge for different preferences. The Jupiter Brown offers a tactile typing experience, blending tradition with innovation through its medium-heavy weight and classic keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Luciola switch stands out for its unique glow-in-the-dark feature and smooth, bouncy typing feel. The Jupiter Brown is ideal for those who prefer a more traditional typing experience, while the Luciola is perfect for users seeking a visually appealing and smooth 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
55g
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
3.60 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Gateron Luciola, it is clear that both switches prioritize sound quality in different ways. The Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer nature which creates a more resonant sound. On the other hand, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a pointed and high-pitched sound, described as clacky. While both materials aim to enhance sound quality, the Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate emphasizes clearness, while the Luciola's INK blend focuses on a satisfying thin sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Jupiter Brown features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing creates a similar pointed and high-pitched sound to its top housing, resulting in a clacky sound. While both bottom housings aim to create a rounder and duller sound compared to the top housing, the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Brown emphasizes a deeper sound, while the Luciola's INK blend offers a more consistent clacky sound throughout the switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Gateron Luciola play a crucial role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. While both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings, each switch offers a unique sound experience. The Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, complemented by the nylon bottom housing's deep and full sound. On the other hand, the Luciola's INK blend top and bottom housing deliver a consistent clacky sound profile throughout the switch. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and offer distinct auditory experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch both have an actuation force of 55 grams, meaning that they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Jupiter Brown is heavier, requiring 70 grams, while the Luciola is lighter, needing 60 grams to bottom out. This means that the Jupiter Brown provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Luciola offers a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches offer different advantages - the Jupiter Brown is ideal for those who prefer a heavier typing experience, while the Luciola is better for those who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Luciola switch requires slightly less travel to actuate compared to the Jupiter Brown switch. In terms of typing or gaming experience, this may result in the Luciola switch feeling more responsive and quicker to actuate. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more deliberate keystroke, the Jupiter Brown switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 switches provide a classic, medium-pitched sound that is not too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switches offer a unique mix of clacky, chirpy, marbly, and high-pitched sounds, giving a more lively and playful auditory experience. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's important to consider the full setup when choosing a switch based on sound preference.
As for feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches offer a more traditional typing experience with a medium-heavy weight and a single-stage spring, providing a classic tactile feel that is well-balanced. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola switches offer a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a medium heft, making them ergonomic and comfortable to use for extended periods. Both switches feature polished characteristics, ensuring a smooth key travel experience that minimizes friction and enhances typing efficiency.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Gateron Luciola switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Brown provides a more classic and medium-pitched sound with a traditional tactile feel, the Luciola switches offer a unique combination of playful sounds and a smooth, bouncy typing experience. Both switches feature polished characteristics that enhance key travel and minimize friction, ensuring a seamless and efficient typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as the overall setup of the keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switches and Gateron Luciola linear switches, consider the factors that are most important to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy keystroke with a classic tactile feel and enhanced backlight effects, the Jupiter Browns may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are drawn to eye-catching switches that glow in the dark, offer a smooth and bouncy typing feel, and produce a distinctive sound profile, the Luciola switches might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, aesthetic preferences, and desired typing experience. Choose the switch that best aligns with your needs and enjoy a customized and satisfying typing experience.
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