Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Durock Lupine stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that offers a traditional keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, making it ideal for those who prefer a more classic typing experience. On the other hand, the Lupine is a linear switch known for its consistent weight distribution and powerful upward movement, providing a smooth and precise typing experience. While the Jupiter Brown excels in reliability and aesthetic appeal, the Lupine stands out for its unique two-stage long springs and classic clacky sound profile. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Durock Lupine, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This means that both switches will produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aesthetic. Therefore, in terms of sound and appearance, users can expect similar results from both the Jupiter Brown and the Lupine when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housing material. The Jupiter Brown features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Lupine also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering users a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the differences in their top housing, the use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound qualities.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials in a switch are divided between the top and bottom housing. While the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, users can expect variations in the sound profile and typing experience based on the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Durock Lupine switches. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique blend of housing materials that contribute to a distinctive typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Durock Lupine linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Jupiter Brown requiring 70 grams and the Lupine requiring 62 grams. This means that while the Jupiter Brown provides a slightly heavier typing experience, both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy feel overall. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Lupine for longer typing sessions, while others may enjoy the more substantial feel of the Jupiter Brown for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Durock Lupine linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Lupine slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the Jupiter Brown. The 0.3 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience and feel of the switch. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Lupine with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Jupiter Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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 tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Durock Lupine linear switch provides a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp. Both switches can deliver different auditory experiences depending on the keyboard, keycaps, and other factors involved.
In terms of feel, both the Jupiter Brown and Lupine switches provide a mild and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth and refined keystroke with reduced friction and comfortable key travel. The Jupiter Brown switch is described as having a more classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, while the Lupine switch features two-stage long springs for consistent weight distribution and a powerful upward movement on rebound.
Considering all the available information, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch offer desirable qualities in their own right. While the Jupiter Brown excels in providing a traditional tactile experience with aesthetic appeal, the Lupine stands out with its innovative two-stage spring design and a high-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference in terms of typing feel, sound, and overall keyboard aesthetics. However, users can expect similar satisfactory results in terms of typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a classic keystroke feel, then the Gateron Jupiter Brown is the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a more consistent typing experience, then the Durock Lupine is the way to go. Consider your preference for tactile feedback and actuation force when making your decision between these two switches. Both switches offer high-quality performance and aesthetic appeal, so whichever you choose, you can expect a great typing experience. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preference and typing style when selecting between the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Durock Lupine switches.
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