Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Gateron Smoothie

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Gateron Smoothie. The Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that provides a classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight, combining tradition with innovation. On the other hand, the Smoothie is a linear switch made entirely of POM material, offering a thocky sound signature, smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Jupiter Browns prioritize a blend of tradition and reliability, the Smoothie focuses on affordability without compromising quality and providing a unique sound 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

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

Gateron Smoothie Linear

$2.80 per 10

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Jupiter Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is relatively stiffer, contributing to a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique auditory experiences that can enhance the typing experience.

In terms of bottom housing materials, the Gateron Jupiter Brown is constructed with a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, complementing the qualities of the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Gateron Smoothie incorporates a POM bottom housing, offering a similar deep and muted sound profile as its POM top housing counterpart. While the nylon and POM materials differ in terms of softness, both bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience of the switches.

When considering how the top and bottom housings interact in a switch, it is important to note the impact each material has on the sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite differences in material between the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Gateron Smoothie, both switches offer a balance of qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sound profiles. Whether it be the sharper and resonant sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and more muted sound of POM, both switches provide unique experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is heavier than the Gateron Smoothie linear switch in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Jupiter Brown requires 55 grams of force to actuate and 70 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Smoothie only needs 40 grams of force to actuate, and the bottom out force is unknown. Weight is a significant factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter switch like the Smoothie may be preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions, while a heavier switch like the Jupiter Brown may offer a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the Gateron Smoothie linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Jupiter Brown offers a traditional travel distance, while the Smoothie provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Jupiter Brown. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, so choosing between them depends on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is known for its traditional keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. When it comes to sound, the Jupiter Brown provides a classic toned-down click, whereas the Smoothie produces a deep, rich, and satisfying thocky sound with a low-pitched and subdued profile. In terms of feel, the Jupiter Brown offers a mild, polished, and stepped typing experience, while the Smoothie provides a buttery, creamy, and silky smooth keystroke sensation. Overall, whether you choose the Jupiter Brown tactile switch or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you can expect a high-quality switch that aligns with your personal preferences based on sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and what you value in a keyboard switch. If you enjoy a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, along with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Brown may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight touch, remarkable smoothness, and a thocky sound signature, the Gateron Smoothie could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the feel and sound you desire in your mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Smoothie Linear

$3.00

$2.60 per 10

Learn more