Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the SP-Star RedBlue 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 SP-Star RedBlue offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch known for blending tradition with innovation, featuring a medium-heavy weight and a classic keystroke feel. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switch stands out for its medium-light typing experience and low-pitched sound profile. While the Jupiter Brown offers a more tactile typing experience, the RedBlue provides a smoother and quieter feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the SP-Star RedBlue, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Jupiter Brown differentiates itself with a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. In contrast, the RedBlue sticks with polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which continues to contribute to a clear and resonant sound profile.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the SP-Star RedBlue switches are likely to produce similar sound profiles due to their shared polycarbonate top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more defined and resonant sound, while the translucency allows for RGB lighting effects to shine through. However, where the Jupiter Brown may offer a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing, the RedBlue maintains a consistent sharp and crisp tone throughout. This combination of materials results in a dynamic typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the SP-Star RedBlue switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. The Jupiter Brown's blend of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials offers a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, while the RedBlue's consistent use of polycarbonate provides a more uniform and clear sound profile. Whether you prioritize a crisp, higher-pitched sound or a fuller, deeper tone, both switches showcase the versatility and impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is clear that the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the typing experience. The Jupiter Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel. In contrast, the RedBlue has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it slightly lighter and falling into the medium-light category. The Jupiter Brown would appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the RedBlue would cater to individuals who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, both switches offer different levels of resistance, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for typing comfort.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches. It is worth noting that the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer a standard travel distance, providing a similar tactile feedback regardless of the type of switch. Both switches are suitable for users looking for a consistent typing experience with a moderate travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offers a unique combination of a medium-heavy weight feel with a classic keystroke sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch provides a low-pitched sound profile that is relatively mellow and bass-heavy. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preferences and the specific setup of the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, both the Jupiter Brown and the RedBlue switches are described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth and refined keystroke with reduced friction and a gentle feel. Additionally, both switches fall within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactility, making them suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced enthusiasts.
Overall, while the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer different sound profiles, they both deliver a polished and mild typing experience. Users can expect reliable performance, aesthetic appeal, and a comfortable keystroke with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific qualities that each user values in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, the choice ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy a medium-heavy keystroke feel with a classic tactile response, the Jupiter Brown may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the RedBlue switch could be the perfect fit. Consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and overall feel of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what qualities matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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