Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a plethora of options available in the market today. Two popular choices that stand out are the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch. The Jupiter Brown is known for its tactile feedback, blending tradition with innovation by offering a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight. On the other hand, the Miaowu Switch by KTT boasts enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, setting itself apart with its POK stem. While the Jupiter Brown is categorized as 'Mild', 'Polished', 'Stepped', the Miaowu is classified as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky'. Each switch has its unique characteristics that cater 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Brown and KTT Miaowu both feature polycarbonate top housings, which offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. These clear housings are ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as the translucency allows for the light to shine through effectively. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown has a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Miaowu also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience.
While both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the Jupiter Brown and Miaowu differ in their nylon bottom housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of the switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound, creating a unique typing experience for each switch. Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their combination of materials. Whether it's the deeper sound of the nylon bottom housing or the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing, each material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile of the switches.
It's important to note that the qualities of each housing material in a switch are divided between the top and bottom housings. As a result, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities allows for a balanced and nuanced typing experience, with each housing material contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch. In the case of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and KTT Miaowu, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housings creates a unique sound profile that caters to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Brown has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Miaowu. The Jupiter Brown requires 55 grams of force to actuate and 70 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Miaowu only needs 43 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, classifying it as a lighter switch. This means that the Jupiter Brown will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Miaowu will offer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out force for the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Miaowu has a shorter travel distance compared to the Jupiter Brown. The Jupiter Brown's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper key press experience, while the Miaowu's 3.5 mm travel distance offers a slightly shallower key press. Gamers may lean towards the Miaowu for its faster response times with the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Jupiter Brown. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 is known for providing a pleasing and mellow typing experience, with a subtle sound profile that won't be too intrusive in a quiet environment. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as having a more clacky sound, characterized by sharp and snappy keystrokes that can be quite noticeable. Depending on personal preference, the Jupiter Brown may be preferred for a more subdued typing experience, while the Miaowu may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced and energetic sound while typing.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Brown tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined key travel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactility. The switch also features a single-stage spring, providing consistent feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as bouncy, offering a more spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives a lively feel to typing. This difference in feel may appeal to those who prefer a softer and more gentle typing experience with the Jupiter Brown, or those who enjoy a more dynamic and responsive feel with the Miaowu.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Brown provides a more subdued and classic typing experience with a mild and polished feel, while the Miaowu offers a more energetic and bouncy typing feel with a clacky sound profile. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. However, it is important to note that individual preferences may vary, and experimenting with different switches may be the best way to find the perfect fit for your typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a classic keystroke feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother keystroke action, the KTT Miaowu linear switch may be more suited to your preferences. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to determine which one aligns better with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to whether you prioritize a traditional tactile experience or a smoother linear feel in your mechanical keyboard.