Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Jwick Taro mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Jupiter Brown stands out for its classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, providing a traditional yet innovative typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro switch offers a cozy typing experience with a medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. The Jupiter Brown is known for its mild and polished feel, while the Taro switch is described as neutral and buttery. Both switches offer a stepped actuation, providing a tactile feedback for enhanced typing accuracy. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Jwick Taro feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This type of plastic is relatively stiffer, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through beautifully. As such, both switches offer a similar auditory experience and aesthetic appeal when it comes to their top housings.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Jupiter Brown and the Taro utilize nylon. Nylon is considered a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. Therefore, despite the switches having different top housings, the utilization of nylon in the bottom housing provides a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound depth and texture.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Jwick Taro offer a balance of sound characteristics due to their combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings. While the top housings create a sharper and more resonant sound, the bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This combination allows for a nuanced typing experience that encompasses a range of sound qualities, making both switches appealing options for those looking for a well-rounded auditory experience.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Jwick Taro tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Jupiter Brown requiring 70 grams and the Taro requiring 67 grams to fully press down. The Jupiter Brown can provide a lighter typing experience due to its lower actuation force, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Taro offers a slightly heavier push feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The difference may seem minor, but it can have an impact on the overall feel and performance of the switch. The Jupiter Brown offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users. On the other hand, the Taro offers a shorter travel distance, which could appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 Jupiter Brown is known for its neutral profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various typing purposes. On the other hand, the Taro switch offers a snappy and crisp sound with a medium level of tactility, providing a unique typing experience. Both switches may produce different sounds based on factors such as the keyboard used and the keycaps installed.
When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Brown switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek key travel. It also provides a safe middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel, making it approachable to most users. In contrast, the Taro switch is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. Additionally, the stepped feel of the Taro switch adds a unique dynamic to the typing experience, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during key presses.
Overall, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Jwick Taro tactile switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Brown provides a more traditional tactile typing experience with a classic keystroke feel, the Taro switch offers a cozy and snappy typing sensation with acute clacks. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between the neutral and polished feel of the Jupiter Brown or the buttery and stepped feel of the Taro switch to enhance their overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches are capable of delivering satisfactory results with their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Jupiter Brown with 70 grams may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a classic keystroke feel with medium-heavy weight, the Jupiter Brown is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 67 grams and a snappy, medium-level of tactility with crisp clacks, the Jwick Taro may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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