Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Lotus offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that combines tradition with innovation, providing a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight. On the other hand, the Lotus is a linear switch that offers a different typing experience. The Jupiter Brown is best suited for those who prefer a tactile feedback while typing, with its mild, polished, and stepped design. In contrast, the Lotus is a linear switch with no specific standout features mentioned. It seems to offer a straightforward 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
35g
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
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Outemu Lotus, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound. As a result, the tactile feedback and sound experience of both switches will be similar due to the shared nylon bottom housing.
However, the top housing of the Gateron Jupiter Brown features polycarbonate, while the Outemu Lotus utilizes nylon for the top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Brown contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Lotus creates a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches using RGB lighting, while the softer nature of nylon provides a different tactile experience.
The distinction between the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Outemu Lotus results in a unique typing experience for each switch. The qualities of the top housing material will impact the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. While both switches feature nylon in their bottom housing, providing a similar deeper and fuller sound profile, the differences in their top housing materials - polycarbonate for the Jupiter Brown and nylon for the Lotus - offer varying tactile feedback and sound experiences for users to choose from based on their preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Lotus linear switch with an actuation force of 35 grams, making the Jupiter Brown heavier in this aspect. In terms of bottom out force, the Jupiter Brown requires 70 grams while the Lotus only needs 50 grams, indicating that the Jupiter Brown is also heavier in this category. The Jupiter Brown offers a medium-heavy typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Lotus provides a lighter typing experience, perfect for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Lotus switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Jupiter switch. The difference may not be significant, but it can affect the typing experience and feel of the switch. Gamers might prefer the Lotus switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Jupiter switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Lotus 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 often described as a moderate level of noise, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keypress. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus linear switch is known for its smooth and quiet operation, making it a good choice for environments where noise levels need to be kept low. It is important to remember that the sound produced by a switch is not only influenced by the switch itself, but also by factors like the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch offers a mild tactile experience that is gentle on the fingers, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions. The switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined keystroke that reduces friction and promotes smooth key travel. Additionally, the Jupiter Brown switch is categorized as a stepped tactile switch, providing a subtle two-stage feel that distinguishes it from more pronounced tactile options. The Outemu Lotus linear switch, unfortunately, does not have available information regarding its tactile feel.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch excels in providing a balanced tactile feedback and smooth keystroke experience, the Outemu Lotus linear switch offers a silent and seamless typing experience, making it ideal for quiet environments. Depending on personal preferences for sound levels and tactile response, both switches can offer satisfactory performance, albeit in slightly different ways. Ultimately, the choice between the Jupiter Brown and Lotus switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing environment.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, consider the specific qualities and characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a classic keystroke feel with softer backlight effects, opt for the Jupiter Brown. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth typing experience without tactile feedback, the Lotus may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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