Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Blue offer distinct typing experiences. The Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that combines tradition with innovation, providing a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight. Known for its high-precision molds and enhanced softer backlight effects, these switches offer reliable performance with aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch that offers a unique typing experience with audible click feedback. While the Jupiter Brown may be preferred for its tactile feedback, the Outemu Blue stands out for its satisfying clicking sound. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Blue switches, they both feature a top housing made of polycarbonate. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. However, the difference in sound between the two switches may come from the bottom housing material. The Jupiter Brown features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Outemu Blue also uses nylon for its bottom housing, providing a similar sound profile.
The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches is a common choice to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in material between the top and bottom housings allows for a unique sound experience when typing on the switches. While the top housing primarily impacts the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and overall typing feel. Both the Jupiter Brown and Outemu Blue switches benefit from this combination of housing materials to create a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound characteristics.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Blue switches share similar qualities in their housing materials, with polycarbonate top housings providing a sharp and clear sound profile and nylon bottom housings offering a deeper and fuller sound experience. The choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. Both switches utilize the unique qualities of their housing materials to enhance the overall typing experience, catering to different preferences for sound and feel when typing on a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Brown requires a slightly heavier touch compared to the Blue switch. The Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Blue switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Jupiter Brown offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile response. On the other hand, the lighter actuation force of the Outemu Blue switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing these two switches, it is clear that they offer a similar experience in terms of keypress feel and actuation depth. Both switches provide a moderate amount of travel distance, which can be ideal for those who prefer a balanced typing experience. While the tactile feedback and audible click of the Outemu Blue switch may provide a more satisfying typing experience for some users, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch offers a more subtle and smooth tactile bump. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with a consistent travel distance that can enhance typing speed and accuracy.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80, whereas the Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10.
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 relatively quiet typing experience compared to clicky switches like the Outemu Blue. The Jupiter Browns offer a smooth and gentle keystroke sound that is suitable for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is well-known for its crisp and audible click with each key press, providing a satisfying auditory feedback for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. The switch provides a gentle and approachable feel with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Jupiter Browns have a stepped tactile feel, meaning that users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during typing. However, the specific feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is not available.
Taking all of the available information into consideration, it is evident that the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Browns provide a quieter and more polished typing experience with a stepped tactile feel, while the Outemu Blue switches offer a loud and clicky typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider your typing preferences. If you value a more traditional yet innovative typing experience with a medium-heavy weight, opt for the Jupiter Brown. This switch offers a classic keystroke feel with high-precision molds and soft backlight effects. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a lighter bottom out force and a louder typing experience, the Outemu Blue may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and a medium-heavy keystroke or prefer a clicky switch with a lighter touch and a louder sound. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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