Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly impact your typing experience, and two noteworthy options are the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the HMX Sunset Gleam. The Jupiter Brown, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its medium-heavy actuation force and a traditional keystroke feel, making it a great choice for those who appreciate the feedback and responsiveness of tactile feedback in their typing. Its design emphasizes precision and aesthetics with softer backlight effects, appealing to gamers and typists alike who seek both performance and style. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, a linear switch, offers a different experience with its smooth actuation and subtle top-out, perfect for users who prioritize seamless keypresses and a quieter operation. Its factory lubrication and polished feel enhance the overall typing experience, attracting those who prefer a more fluid and bounce-like response. Both switches have distinct characteristics and appeal to different types of users, making the decision a matter of 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

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$2.80 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and HMX Sunset Gleam switches share similar housing materials, both utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom. The polycarbonate top housing in each switch contributes to a distinctive sound profile characterized by its sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory feedback. This resemblance in materials ensures that users can expect a consistent and pronounced sound output, with polycarbonate's inherent stiffness enhancing the resonance of each keystroke. Furthermore, the clear construction of polycarbonate allows for effective diffusion of RGB lighting, making both switches suitable for aesthetic applications in illuminated setups.

While both switches share the same top housing material, the bottom housing diverges in terms of sound quality and tactile response due to the material differences. Both the Jupiter Brown and Sunset Gleam utilize nylon for their bottom housings, known for its capacity to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Because nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, it results in a warmer and rounder auditory experience when typing. This shared nylon material ensures that both switches offer a smooth, cushioned bottom-out feel, further enhancing their appeal for users seeking comfort during lengthy typing sessions.

The unique combination of housing materials per switch means that even with identical materials at the top and bottom, the characteristics contribute differently to the overall switch experience. The polycarbonate top housing primarily influences the sound produced during key release, leading to a sharper tonal quality, whereas the nylon bottom housing impacts the feel and sound on bottom-out, providing a rounded response. This balanced interplay allows users to enjoy a nuanced typing experience, as both switches can deliver similar auditory results while ensuring comfort and responsiveness through their respective housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Jupiter Brown has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam exhibits lighter weights, with an actuation force of just 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, catering to individuals who appreciate a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Hence, if you're looking for a switch that provides less resistance and quicker response times, the Sunset Gleam would be more suitable. Conversely, for those who enjoy a firmer press, the Jupiter Brown offers a heavier and more tactile feedback. Overall, both switches serve different preferences, with the Jupiter Brown being the heavier option and the Sunset Gleam being the lighter choice.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This distinction results in the Jupiter Brown offering a more substantial feel with its longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a deeper engagement when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam's shorter travel distance is in line with the growing trend towards faster response times, making it a better choice for gamers seeking quick actuation. While both switches serve different preferences, if you enjoy a hearty depth in your keystrokes, the Gateron Jupiter Brown would be ideal for you, whereas the HMX Sunset Gleam caters to those who favor a more responsive and minimalistic approach.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch has a more muted auditory profile typical of tactile switches. While it provides a pleasing, somewhat gentle thud with each keystroke, it lacks the pronounced resonance found in some other switches, creating an environment that is conducive to both focused work and casual typing without drawing too much attention. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch is characterized by a resonant sound that produces a clean, sharp auditory experience. This higher-pitched profile not only heightens the overall typing experience but also adds an immersive quality to each keystroke, making it more sonically engaging, especially for loud environments or typing sessions that benefit from an auditory affirmation.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch is designed to offer a mild typing experience with its tactile bump and medium-heavy weight. This mildness makes it approachable for most users who prefer a gentle feedback without harsh interruptions, creating a balanced interaction with the keyboard. The stepped tactile nature of this switch translates to a well-defined but subtle keystroke experience. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam switch excels in delivering a polished, silky feel; the smooth key travel, enhanced by the factory lube, minimizes friction and resistance, allowing for fluid motion across all key presses. Additionally, this switch offers a bouncy feedback that provides a lively sensation, giving typists an invigorating rebound effect that keeps each interaction dynamic and responsive.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and HMX Sunset Gleam switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Jupiter Brown offers a more classic tactile experience with a low sound profile, suitable for those who seek gentleness and reliability. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam tops the experience with its resonant sound and silky smoothness, appealing to users who enjoy a more lively and immersive typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can be highly satisfying choices in their own right.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a more traditional typing experience with a satisfying tactile response, the Jupiter Brown is the right choice. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams and mild but stepped feedback provide a balanced feel that many find comfortable for both typing and gaming. This makes it suitable for those who enjoy a gentle yet defined keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, smoother experience that allows for quick, fluid keystrokes, the Sunset Gleam is ideal. With its 48-gram bottom-out force and polished, bouncy feel, it’s designed to offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, perfect for fast-paced gaming or marathon typing sessions where you want to minimize fatigue. Additionally, the resonant sound profile of the Sunset Gleam creates a lively auditory experience that some users might find more engaging. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you prioritize tactile feedback versus smoothness and weight in your keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more