Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and KTT Semi Mute stand out as popular choices with distinct features. The Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that offers a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, perfect for those who appreciate tradition and innovation. On the other hand, the Semi Mute is a linear switch designed for a noise-free environment, ideal for late-night typists seeking uninterrupted typing sessions. While the Jupiter Brown is known for its polished and stepped feel, the Semi Mute is praised for its buttery and muted sensation. Both switches prioritize comfort and performance, but cater to different preferences in terms of sound and 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
43g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the KTT Semi Mute, it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute.
While the top housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the KTT Semi Mute are both polycarbonate, the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches. The impact of the housing material on the sound and feel of the switch varies based on whether it is the top or bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Brown influences the bottom-out sound and feel, offering a deeper and fuller typing experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Semi Mute contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile. This distinction in housing materials emphasizes the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials when evaluating the overall typing experience of a switch.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the KTT Semi Mute results in similar sound profiles characterized by sharpness and clarity. However, the differentiation in bottom housing materials between the two switches leads to distinct typing experiences. The Jupiter Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper sound profile, while the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a crisper sound. Understanding the impact of both top and bottom housing materials is essential for individuals seeking a specific sound and feel in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the KTT Semi Mute linear switch. The Jupiter Brown requires 55 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 70 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Semi Mute only needs 43 grams to actuate and 58 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Jupiter Brown may be the preferred choice due to its heavier forces. On the other hand, the Semi Mute may be better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches provide different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer the same amount of key travel when pressed, resulting in similar tactile feedback and typing experience. Users can expect consistent performance from both switches in terms of travel distance, making it a matter of personal preference in terms of tactile feedback rather than distance traveled. Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch provide users with a similar key travel experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 Brown tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offers a muted and quieter typing experience suitable for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches provide a more subdued sound compared to traditional mechanical switches, with the Semi Mute offering a more drastic reduction in noise level due to its advanced dampening technology. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is described as mild and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle tactile feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is characterized as buttery and mild, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation with a uniform feel. Both switches fall within the category of providing a comfortable typing experience, with the Jupiter Brown offering a more traditional tactile feedback while the Semi Mute provides a smoother linear feel.
Overall, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Brown provides a classic tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile, the Semi Mute offers a quieter typing experience with a buttery and smooth keystroke feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound level and typing sensation, both switches are solid choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a high-quality typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of performance and feel from both switches, with the main distinction lying in their sound characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider your preferences in terms of typing experience and noise level. If you prioritize a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight and enjoy a tactile switch that blends tradition with innovation, the Gateron Jupiter Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and desire a comfortable and gratifying typing feel with advanced dampening technology, the KTT Semi Mute switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard.
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