Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch to the TKC Tangerine linear switch, we see distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Browns offer a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, making them ideal for those who appreciate tradition coupled with innovation. On the other hand, the Tangerines provide an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a high-pitched clack, thanks to their UHWMPE housings. While the Jupiter Browns are characterized as 'Mild', 'Polished', and 'Stepped', the Tangerines are labeled as 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your individual typing style and preferences. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the TKC Tangerine, it is clear that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Jupiter Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Tangerine features a UHWMPE top housing, known for its bright sound signature offering resonant clacks. While both materials excel in providing distinct sound characteristics, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you are looking for a sharper, crisper sound, the Jupiter Brown may be the better option, whereas the Tangerine's unique bright sound may appeal to those seeking a different auditory experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing of the switches, the Jupiter Brown incorporates a nylon material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for the bottom housing, enhancing the bright sound signature and offering resonant clacks when typing. While both materials offer their own advantages in terms of sound profiles, the nylon housing of the Jupiter Brown may provide a more subdued and rounded sound compared to the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine. This distinction highlights the impact that different housing materials can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the TKC Tangerine may differ in terms of their sound profiles, both switches deliver unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences. Whether you prioritize a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a bright, resonant clack, each switch provides a distinct typing experience based on its housing materials. While the Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing may offer a clearer sound with RGB lighting capabilities, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top and bottom housings bring a bright sound signature that is sure to stand out. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the TKC Tangerine linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Tangerine switch has a lower bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Jupiter Brown requires 70 grams to bottom out. In terms of weight, the Tangerine switch is lighter overall, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown switch offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, so users can choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is 4 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches have the same travel distance, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. Users can expect to get similar results in terms of tactile feedback and key travel with both switches. Therefore, whether you choose the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch or the TKC Tangerine linear switch, you can enjoy the same travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80, whereas the TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30.
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 is known for providing a classic and medium-heavy keystroke feel, but the specific sound characteristics are not well-defined. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is described as having a high-pitched clack when typing on them, offering a sharp and crisp sound profile. This difference in sound profile between the two switches can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users who have a preference for a certain type of sound output.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience with a single-stage spring that provides a classic feel at a medium-heavy weight. The switch is also noted for its stepped tactile bump, providing a more subtle tactile feedback compared to other switches. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch provides a frictionless and buttery typing experience, thanks to the UHWMPE housings that contribute to an incredibly smooth keystroke feel. Both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer different sound and feel characteristics that cater to unique preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Jupiter Brown provides a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, while the Tangerine offers an incredibly smooth and frictionless typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to customize their typing experience to suit their preferred typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and aesthetic appeal, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a classic keystroke feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more effortless typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the TKC Tangerine linear switch would be the better choice for you. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience when deciding between these two switches to find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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