Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the TTC Neptune offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Browns are tactile switches with a more classic keystroke feel and medium-heavy weight, providing a reliable performance with softer backlight effects. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure that delivers a smooth, frictionless glide with a springy resistance, offering a unique "matte" feel to every keystroke. While the Jupiter Brown is best suited for those who enjoy a traditional tactile typing experience, the Neptune appeals to those seeking a buttery, gummy, and muted typing experience. 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
41g
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
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the TTC Neptune switches provide different sound profiles and typing experiences. The Jupiter Brown features a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Neptune's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound can greatly impact the overall typing feel and sound experience for users of each switch.
In terms of bottom housing material, the Jupiter Brown utilizes nylon which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Neptune comes with a polycarbonate bottom housing which, similar to its top housing material, delivers a sharper and more resonant sound. The use of different materials for the bottom housing in each switch further contributes to the unique sound profiles they offer, providing users with a variety of options depending on their preferences.
It's important to note that the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch can alter the overall typing experience. The qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Jupiter Brown and TTC Neptune switches, users can expect similar results in terms of the impact of their housing materials on the sound profile and typing experience of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, there are significant differences to consider. The Jupiter Brown has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Neptune's lighter 41 grams. Additionally, the Jupiter Brown requires a higher bottom out force of 70 grams, whereas the Neptune only needs 50 grams. This means that the Jupiter Brown offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier feel, while the Neptune provides a lighter and potentially smoother typing experience. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Neptune for longer typing sessions, while others may enjoy the heavier forces of the Jupiter Brown for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.8 mm travel distance of the TTC Neptune linear switch. With this information, we can see that the Jupiter Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neptune. While the Jupiter Brown may provide a bit more depth when pressing down on the key, the Neptune offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether you prefer a longer, more deliberate keypress with the Jupiter Brown, or a shorter, quicker keypress with the TTC Neptune.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 characterized by a sound profile that is undefined. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch is praised for its low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky sound, offering a refined and unobtrusive auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to the typing feel, the Jupiter Brown switch is considered to be mild and polished, offering a gentle and refined typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. In comparison, the TTC Neptune linear switch is described as buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke that feels like typing on a trampoline or a gummy bear. This unique blend of sensations ensures a seamless and uniform typing experience that minimizes resistance and maximizes comfort.
Overall, while the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch offer different sound and feel profiles, they both prioritize user comfort and typing efficiency. The Jupiter Brown excels in providing a classic keystroke feel with medium-heavy weight, while the Neptune stands out with its ultralight and frictionless typing experience. Whether you prefer a more traditional tactile sensation or a modern linear feel, both switches are designed to deliver reliable performance and aesthetic appeal to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a classic keystroke feel with medium-heavy resistance, opt for the Jupiter Brown. This switch offers a traditional typing experience with a tactile bump that many users appreciate. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and frictionless typing experience with a lighter touch, the Neptune may be more suitable for you. Its unique combination of a "matte" feel and ultralight bottom out force provides a different sensation that can enhance your typing comfort and speed. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prioritize traditional tactility or modern smoothness in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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