Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Cherry Nixie mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both switches offer unique features and benefits. The Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch known for its blend of tradition and innovation, offering a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is a linear switch with a substantial heft and textured typing experience, incorporating modern updates to provide a satisfying feel. If you prefer a more traditional, tactile keystroke experience, the Jupiter Brown may be the ideal choice. However, if you seek a smooth, linear typing experience with a hint of modern innovation, the Cherry Nixie could be the better option. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Cherry Nixie both use nylon for their bottom housing, which gives them a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. This similarity means that typing on both switches will elicit a similar tactile experience, with a duller and rounder sound when pressed. However, the use of polycarbonate for the top housing in the Jupiter Brown creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Nixie's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing.
While both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, the Gateron Jupiter Brown stands out with its polycarbonate top housing. The Jupiter Brown's clear housing allows for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance, especially when paired with RGB lighting. The Nixie, on the other hand, maintains a classic look with its nylon top housing, focusing more on creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in housing materials highlights the importance of material selection in influencing the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Cherry Nixie will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics. The Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Conversely, the Nixie's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to individuals looking for a more muffled and rounded typing feel. Both switches showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the overall performance and user experience of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in weight. The Jupiter Brown has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Nixie has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavy switch. Those who prefer a light touch may find the Jupiter Brown more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier Cherry Nixie switch. Both switches offer a tactile and satisfying typing experience, but the difference in weight will cater to varying preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either one of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, so you can expect similar results in terms of keypress feedback and feel. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is equal, providing a standard typing experience regardless of which one you choose to use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.15.
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 Browns are known for their quiet and smooth operation, producing a soft and muted sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switches are described as thocky and low-pitched, offering a deeper and more satisfying sound profile. Depending on personal preference, the Jupiter Browns may be preferred for a quieter typing experience, while the Nixies may be favored by those who enjoy a more pronounced and bass-heavy sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Browns offer a mild and polished typing experience with a single-stage spring, providing a gentle keystroke that falls in the middle ground of tactile switches. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switches are described as textured, potentially offering a more noticeable friction when pressed. The Jupiter Browns provide a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction, while the Nixies may suit users who prefer a bit of resistance in their keystrokes.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switches and the Cherry Nixie linear switches each have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Browns offer a quieter and more subtle typing experience with a classic feel, while the Nixies provide a more substantial and textured typing experience with a deeper sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Both switches are high-quality options that will deliver a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users can expect reliable performance and aesthetic appeal from either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch or the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a classic keystroke feel and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Brown may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier linear switch with a textured typing experience and a deep "thocky" sound, the Nixie could be the perfect fit. Consider your bottom out force preference, sound preference, and typing feel preference when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer quality and performance, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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