Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Gateron Mini i, both tactile switches with unique characteristics. The Jupiter Browns are known for blending tradition with innovation, offering a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight. These switches provide reliable performance with enhanced softer backlight effects, perfect for those who enjoy a more polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switches make a subtle entrance with gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile, ideal for office settings where quiet professionalism is key. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Gateron Mini i, we find that they both boast nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Both switches offer a similar experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom of the switch, with the nylon material providing a consistent feel and sound profile.
On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Gateron Mini i utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate material used in the Jupiter Brown creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Mini i's nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. In contrast, the Mini i's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a difference in sound and feel when typing on the top of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Gateron Mini i will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings for a consistent deeper and fuller sound, their differences lie in the top housing material. The Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those looking for a more defined typing experience, while the Mini i's nylon top housing offers a smoother and rounder sound profile. Ultimately, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Mini i tactile switch. While the Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, the Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Jupiter Brown provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Mini i offers a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where fatigue might be a concern. Both switches have their own advantages based on the preference of the user in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Jupiter Brown offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a satisfying depth when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Mini i offers a shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance - whether you prefer a deeper and more tactile experience or a quicker and more responsive one. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Jupiter Brown providing a longer travel distance and the Mini i offering a shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80, whereas the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00.
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 medium-heavy weight keystroke with a more classic feel, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a fairly muted sound profile that doesn't sacrifice the satisfying feedback of typing, making it ideal for office environments where quiet professionalism is key. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes, with the sound also being influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch provides a mild and polished typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, offering a gentle typing experience with a safe, middle-ground zone of characteristics. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press feel with light actuation force for effortless and comfortable typing, as well as a snappy and subtle typing experience suitable for shared spaces. Both switches feature a stepped tactile feel, giving users a responsive and dynamic typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Gateron Mini i tactile switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and environments. Users can expect a satisfying tactile feedback from both switches, albeit in slightly different ways. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, enthusiasts can enjoy similar levels of performance and satisfaction from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch or the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a more traditional keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight and slightly more pronounced tactile bump, the Jupiter Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a lightweight switch with a gentle tactile feedback and a quieter sound profile, the Mini i could be a better fit. Consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard, as well as your typing style and preferences, to make an informed decision between these two excellent Gateron switch options.
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