Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the KTT Matcha stand out as top contenders in the tactile switch category. The Jupiter Browns offer a blend of tradition and innovation with their tactile feedback and medium-heavy weight, providing a classic keystroke feel. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha impresses with its comfortable and snappy tactility, as well as a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. While the Jupiter Browns are praised for their high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Matcha is appreciated for its unique characteristics like being 'Snappy' and 'Clacky'. When choosing between these two switches, consider the specific qualities that align with your preferences and typing style. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the KTT Matcha, it is evident that they both use polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housings. The Jupiter Brown utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile compared to nylon.
The use of different materials for the bottom housing of the Jupiter Brown and the Matcha leads to distinct typing experiences. Typing on the Jupiter Brown will offer a deeper and fuller sound due to the nylon bottom housing's ability to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, typing on the Matcha will provide a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the polycarbonate bottom housing's stiffer nature that leads to clearer and resonant sound. This difference in bottom housing material showcases how the choice of material can impact the overall sound and typing experience of a switch.
Overall, while both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the KTT Matcha utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The Jupiter Brown's nylon bottom housing leads to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing results in a sharper and crisper sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles and typing experiences can help keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their setups.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is clear that the Matcha is the lighter of the two. The Jupiter Brown has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Matcha has a lower actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered light in comparison. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Matcha would be the better option. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Jupiter Brown. Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force of a switch play a significant role in the typing experience, so it is important to consider individual preferences when choosing between these two switches.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. In terms of comparing and contrasting their travel distances, there is no difference between the two switches as they have identical specifications. This means that whether you choose the Jupiter Brown or the Matcha switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of tactile feedback and keypress experience. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable travel distance for typing or gaming purposes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 is known for providing a traditional and classic keystroke sound, which is likely to be less sharp and more mellow compared to the KTT Matcha's described "clacky" sound. Both switches offer their own unique auditory experience, with the Matcha being more crisp and bright, while the Jupiter Brown may offer a smoother and softer sound. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience, offering a safe middle-ground zone of tactility that is comfortable for most users. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha is noted for its stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle feel, providing a more dynamic and responsive typing experience with a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. While the Jupiter Brown offers a more refined and traditional typing feel, the Matcha provides a livelier and more varied tactile experience that may appeal to users looking for a bit more excitement in their keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the KTT Matcha tactile switches have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Jupiter Brown provides a classic and smooth keystroke sound with a milder and polished typing feel, suitable for those who prefer a more traditional typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha offers a sharper and more dynamic bottom-out sound, paired with a stepped and varied tactile feel that is snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the smoother and more traditional feel of the Jupiter Brown or the livelier and more diverse tactile experience of the Matcha to enhance their typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. 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 are looking for a lighter bottom out force, a snappy tactility, clean bottom-out sound, and a variety of qualities such as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle, then the Matcha switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound.
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