Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the SP-Star Meteor Orange mechanical keyboard switches, both tactile switches with distinctive qualities come to mind. The Jupiter browns offer a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight and high-precision molds, making them a reliable choice for those who prioritize performance and aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches are praised for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, providing a softer typing experience. While the Jupiter browns are categorized as mild, polished, stepped, the Meteor Orange switches fall under neutral, mild, thocky, polished. 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
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. This means that typing on both switches will result in a similar overall sound experience, with a duller and rounder sound when compared to switches made of harder plastics for their bottom housings.
However, where the switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Jupiter Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness and clear translucency, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. While both materials offer their unique sound characteristics, the difference in materials will result in a noticeable variation in sound when pressing down and releasing a key on the switches.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the SP-Star Meteor Orange ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing will provide a sharper and crisper sound, while the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing will offer a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches share the qualities of nylon for their bottom housings, ensuring a consistent duller and rounder sound overall. Whether you prefer a brighter sound profile or a deeper tone, both switches offer unique sound experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, we can see some differences. The Jupiter Brown has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Meteor Orange, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force for the Jupiter Brown is 70 grams, while the Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams. This makes the Jupiter Brown slightly heavier in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Meteor Orange, which is on the lighter side. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Jupiter Brown for its heavier forces, while those who prefer a lighter touch may prefer the Meteor Orange. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel. As a result, the typing experience on both switches will be equally satisfying in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed. Whether you choose the Jupiter Brown or the Meteor Orange, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall feel of the switch. These similarities make them both excellent options for those who prefer a 4 mm travel distance in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch is known for its neutral sound profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch is described as thocky, producing a deep, rich sound when pressed and released. Depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, the sound output of both switches may vary, but the Jupiter Brown leans towards a more standard sound, while the Meteor Orange offers a more satisfying and distinct typing experience.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches provide a mild tactile experience, making them suitable for most users. Additionally, both switches are noted for their polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel with reduced friction. The Jupiter Brown switch is also described as stepped, offering a two-stage tactile feel, which may appeal to those who prefer a more subtle tactile sensation. Overall, both switches offer a gentle typing experience with a refined touch, ensuring comfortable and smooth keystrokes.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches share similarities in their mild tactile feel and polished finish, providing users with a comfortable and smooth typing experience. While the Jupiter Brown leans towards a more standard sound profile, the Meteor Orange stands out with its thocky sound, offering a more distinctive auditory feedback. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, allowing users to choose based on their individual typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch or the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy keystroke feel with a classic tactile feedback and enhanced backlight effects, the Jupiter Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter keystroke feel with a gentle tactility and a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange could be more suitable. Both switches offer a polished and mild typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either choice. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision, and remember to choose the switch that feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you. Ultimately, the best switch for you is the one that enhances your typing experience and accommodates your preferences.
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