Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Cherry MX Purple RGB both present compelling options for tactile switch enthusiasts, yet they cater to slightly different preferences. The Jupiter Brown switches are recognized for their classic keystroke feel, characterized by a medium-heavy actuation force that combines tradition with modern aesthetics through their enhanced backlight effects. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches deliver a refined tactile experience with a shorter bump, engineered in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, ensuring a responsive yet satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer their unique blend of performance and tactile feedback, making them appealing choices for gamers and typists alike. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, notable differences emerge, particularly in the composition of their top housings. The Jupiter Brown switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for offering a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its increased stiffness and resonance. This allows for a more pronounced auditory feedback when typing, especially accentuated when the switch is released. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches are constructed with a nylon top housing, which softens the sound profile, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. As nylon absorbs sound more effectively than polycarbonate, the Cherry MX switches deliver a more subdued sound upon key release, contrasting starkly with the higher-pitched tones of the Jupiter Browns.
Both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings, as they both utilize nylon material. This shared feature contributes similarly to the acoustic results when typing. The nylon construction in the bottom housing is known to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory feedback. Consequently, when users bottom out on either switch, they will experience a deeper tonal quality, regardless of the differences in their top housing materials. This similarity in bottom housing creates a cohesive auditory experience, where both switches provide a degree of sound insulation that diminishes harsher sounds while typing.
Ultimately, the distinct qualities of the top and bottom housings in the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches illustrate how different materials influence the overall typing experience. The combination of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Jupiter Brown enhances the clarity of sound while the nylon bottom dampens it, creating a unique balance. Conversely, the nylon top of the Cherry MX Purple contributes to a more muted sound profile, with its bottom housing reinforcing that deeper, fuller auditory experience. Therefore, while both switches share a common nylon bottom for depth, their differing top materials delineate their character, leading to varied yet complementary results in sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, notable differences in actuation force can be observed. The Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, which provides a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, facilitating easier keystrokes that can be beneficial for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple RGB is unspecified, making direct comparisons for that measurement impossible. Given these specifications, the Jupiter Brown switch is heavier overall, while the MX Purple RGB is the lighter option, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer touch and less fatigue during extended use.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressed, both switches offer the same tactile feedback and key feel during a key press, providing a uniform typing experience. Since the travel distance is equal, users can expect similar results in terms of keystroke depth and overall comfort when using either switch. Therefore, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, making them interchangeable for those who prioritize consistent travel distances in their keyboard choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 considering the sound profiles of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, it's important to note that the specific auditory qualities of the Jupiter Brown are not detailed, leaving some uncertainty. However, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches are known to provide a refined auditory experience, which is likely a well-balanced sound that represents their medium-strength tactile bump. Sound characteristics can vary significantly due to the choice of keyboard construction and keycap material, so while one might expect a smooth and pleasing sound from both types of switches, the actual experience can differ from setup to setup.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Brown switches are recognized for their mild, polished, and stepped characteristics. This means they offer a gentle, approachable typing experience with reduced friction and a smooth key travel, highlighting a combination of tactile feedback that is not overwhelmingly strong. The stepped design provides a sense of two distinct stages in the keystroke, allowing typists to feel the pre-travel and post-travel, adding depth to the overall experience. On the other hand, the specifics of the feel for the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches are not provided. However, given their collaborative development aimed at enhancing tactile response, it can be inferred they would also strive for a refined and enjoyable typing experience, potentially aligning with some of the qualities found in the Jupiter Brown.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switches present a mild, polished, and stepped typing experience complemented by their classic keystroke feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is recognized for a refined tactile experience, though specific traits concerning their feel remain unspecified. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing sensation, yet the unique characteristics of each may cater to distinct preferences among users. If you're considering these switches, expect a smooth and enjoyable feel and a sound experience that will depend heavily on your keyboard's construction and chosen keycaps, leading to a satisfying mechanical typing journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for feel, weight, and sensory feedback. If you value a traditional typing experience with a medium-heavy keystroke, the Jupiter Brown's polished and mildly stepped design makes it an excellent choice, particularly if you appreciate a softer backlight effect alongside reliable performance. Its tactile feedback is approachable, striking a balance between comfort and distinct key actuation. Conversely, if you seek a more refined tactile experience with a shorter bump and potentially lighter operation, the MX Purple RGB might be more suited to your style. This switch, developed with input from keyboard enthusiasts, offers a unique engagement that could enhance your typing or gaming experience, especially in RGB-lit settings. Thus, consider what you prioritize in your keyboard use—whether it is the tactile satisfaction of a classic feel or the modern appeal and feedback of a shorter actuation. Each switch has its unique charm, so your choice will reflect your individual typing habits and aesthetic preferences.
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