Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Outemu Red Panda

Overview

When considering two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Red Panda, it's essential to understand their unique characteristics and features. 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 and high-precision molds for reliable performance and aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, the Red Panda provides a light-medium amount of tactility with a distinctive bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a unique typing experience. Both switches have their strengths and qualities that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$2.80 per 10

$3.40 per 10

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Housing materials

Both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Red Panda feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housings of these switches leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for users looking for a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Overall, the top housing material plays a significant role in determining the sound and aesthetic qualities of these switches, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts.

In terms of bottom housing material, both the Jupiter Brown and the Red Panda utilize nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics. Nylon is known for its softer properties, which absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. This makes the switches feel more tactile and satisfying to use, as the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the keystrokes. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches adds a layer of complexity to the overall typing experience, appealing to users who appreciate a tactile response.

While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, such as the use of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing, the specific design and construction of each switch will ultimately determine the user experience. The qualities of each housing material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting various aspects of typing sensation and sound. Whether it's the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate or the fuller sound profile of nylon, users can expect a unique and satisfying typing experience with either the Gateron Jupiter Brown or the Outemu Red Panda.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is clear that the Jupiter Brown is heavier in both aspects. The Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy compared to the Red Panda, which has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium category. The lighter actuation force of the Red Panda may appeal to those looking for a smoother typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. In contrast, the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Jupiter Brown may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Overall, while the Jupiter Brown offers a heavier typing experience, the Red Panda provides a lighter touch, ultimately catering to different preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Red Panda has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Jupiter Brown offers a traditional travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press, while the Red Panda provides a shallower press that can be beneficial for gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches have their advantages, with the Jupiter Brown offering a more pronounced key press and the Red Panda providing quicker feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch is known for producing a moderate and traditional sound with a medium-heavy weight keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a unique thocky sound with a bassier bottom-out and clackier top-out sound. These differences in sound characteristics can provide a variety of auditory experiences for users, depending on personal preference and typing style.

When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Red Panda switches are described as offering a mild typing experience, which is gentle and approachable for most users. Additionally, the Jupiter Brown switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. In contrast, the Red Panda switch does not have additional feel descriptors available, indicating that it may offer a straightforward typing feel without any special attributes. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a mild tactile feedback, catering to a wide range of users.

In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Outemu Red Panda switches offer distinct characteristics in both sound and feel. While the Jupiter Brown switch provides a more traditional and medium-heavy sound with a polished feel, the Red Panda switch stands out with its unique thocky sound profile. Both switches offer a mild typing experience that is suitable for most users, making them versatile options for different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetic appeal.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience that best suits your preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a classic keystroke feel and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter bottom out force and a more bassy and clacky sound profile, the Red Panda could be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you are looking for. Happy typing!

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more