Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Huano Strawberry Latte

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Huano Strawberry Latte offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Jupiter Brown, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its traditional keystroke feel combined with modern enhancements, featuring a medium-heavy weight and a single-stage spring design. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile bump for feedback while typing, making it a favorite for typists and gamers who appreciate a more engaged feel. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte, a linear switch, delivers a super smooth keystroke with a balanced sound profile that strikes the right chord between quiet operation and satisfying resonance. This switch is perfect for users who prefer a seamless, uninterrupted keypress, typically favored by gamers who require rapid and repeated keystrokes without distraction. Each switch has its unique benefits, making the choice largely dependent on personal preference; 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

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$2.80 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Huano Strawberry Latte, the most notable difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Jupiter Brown utilizes polycarbonate, which is known for its stiffer composition, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material's high translucency also enhances RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing for custom keyboards. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte features a top housing made from POK (polyketone), which, while also offering durability, contributes to a smooth feel and a clacky sound profile. Although both materials are engineered for performance, their differing acoustic characteristics and aesthetic functions result in distinct typing experiences.

On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which is a classic choice in the keyboard industry. The nylon bottom provides a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing some impact to create a more rounded sound profile when the switch is bottomed out. This shared characteristic in the bottom housing means that both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Huano Strawberry Latte will yield similar auditory results in terms of sound depth and fullness, regardless of the differences in their upper constructions. This commonality can provide a more familiar feel to users who value a consistent bottom-out sound, allowing for a cohesive typing experience.

Ultimately, the combination of these housings serves to highlight the distinctions between the two switches. The Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top produces a bright, resonant tone suitable for users who prefer clarity and sharpness, while the Strawberry Latte’s POK top focuses on a smooth feel complemented by a clackier sound. The nylon bottom housing bridges the gap between them, ensuring a fuller sound profile across both types. Therefore, although the distinct properties of the top housings lead to varied overall experiences, the shared nylon foundation guarantees a level of acoustic similarity that defines each switch's character when used.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch to the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch, there's a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces, with the Jupiter Brown being the heavier option. The Jupiter Brown requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which provides a medium-heavy tactile feel that can be appreciated by those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Latte has a much lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, appealing to users seeking less resistance for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Thus, while both switches serve their purpose, the Jupiter Brown offers a heftier push that's satisfying for users who enjoy tactile feedback, whereas the Strawberry Latte caters to those who prioritize ease and comfort over longer durations.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This distinction highlights the Jupiter Brown as the longer option, providing a more pronounced keypress that some users may find more satisfying and substantial. On the other hand, the Strawberry Latte's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance may cater to those who prefer a snappier response, making it more suitable for fast-paced gaming scenarios. Therefore, if you appreciate the deeper feel of a keypress, the Jupiter Brown would be the ideal choice, whereas the Strawberry Latte is better for users who favor a quicker, more responsive switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch delivers a balanced auditory experience that reflects its versatile design. While the specific sound profile isn’t listed, tactile switches like the Jupiter Brown often produce a satisfying and gentle thock that isn’t overly loud, making them suitable for both quiet environments and more dynamic settings. On the other hand, the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch is characterized by a balanced sound profile, which exists in the middle ground—not too quiet and not overly resonant. This allows for a smooth typing experience without an excessive clatter, catering to those who prefer a clean auditory feedback during their typing sessions.

In terms of feel, the Jupiter Brown switch provides a mild typing experience, making it approachable for users who enjoy a gentle yet tactile feedback. Its stepped design allows for a distinct tactile bump, which can be felt during both the pre-travel and post-travel phases of the keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Huano Strawberry Latte offers an ultra-smooth linear feel, which is ideal for those seeking a seamless and uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile feedback. This smoothness contributes to a different allure, particularly favored by gamers and individuals who prefer rapid key presses without interruption.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Huano Strawberry Latte switches present unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. While the Jupiter Brown emphasizes a mild, tactile experience combined with a subtle sound, the Strawberry Latte leans toward an exceptionally smooth linear feel with a balanced sound profile. Users looking for a combination of tactile feedback and gentle sound may prefer the Jupiter Brown, while those who prioritize smoothness and less tactile resistance will likely gravitate towards the Strawberry Latte. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges upon personal preference, as each offers a fulfilling typing experience within their respective categories.

Conclusion

To conclude, selecting between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a traditional typing experience with a medium-heavy weight that provides a gentle tactile bump, the Jupiter Brown is an excellent choice. Its stepped tactile feel offers a satisfying response without overwhelming your fingers, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth keystroke and a lighter touch, the Strawberry Latte will be more to your liking. Its lighter bottom-out force allows for quicker key presses, ideal for fast-paced gaming or extended typing sessions where comfort and speed are paramount. Furthermore, the approachable sound profile of the Jupiter Brown makes it suitable for shared spaces, while the Strawberry Latte offers a balanced acoustic experience that won't disturb those around you. Ultimately, carefully consider what you value more in your typing experience—whether it's the tactile feedback of the Jupiter Brown or the smoothness of the Strawberry Latte—to find the perfect match for your keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Huano Strawberry Latte Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more