Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference and typing style, with options like the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the HMX Twilight providing distinct experiences. The Gateron Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that artfully combines tradition and innovation. With a single-stage spring, it offers a classic keystroke feel that is medium-heavy, making it ideal for typists who appreciate feedback without being overly loud. Enhanced features, such as high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, add to its appeal, marrying reliable performance with a touch of visual flair. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight is a linear switch that excels in providing a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke. Boasting an extended 3.85mm travel distance, this switch caters to those who prefer a quieter typing experience while delivering the familiar clacky characteristics typical of HMX switches. Choosing a switch ultimately depends on whether you favor the tactile feedback of the Jupiter Brown or the smooth action of the Twilight. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.85 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the HMX Twilight, we find notable distinctions primarily in their top housing compositions. The Jupiter Brown utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sound profile that is notably sharper and crisper due to the material's stiffness. This rigidity contributes to a more resonant acoustic experience, making it an excellent choice for RGB lighting setups thanks to its translucency. Conversely, the HMX Twilight utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is a classic choice known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. The softness of nylon tends to absorb sound rather than amplify it, leading to a rounder sound profile. Thus, the acoustics generated by the two switches exhibit a stark contrast, with the Jupiter Browns sounding more articulate and high-pitched, while the Twilights produce a richer, more mellow tone.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Jupiter Brown and Twilight switches share a similarity as they utilize nylon. This common choice leads to deeper sound profiles, as nylon's softer texture absorbs impact and minimizes resonance. Because both switches feature nylon in their bottom housings, typing performance in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel will likely be quite comparable. The qualities of each switch in terms of tactile feedback during pressing will lean toward the muted and cushioned experience provided by nylon, emphasizing a comfortable feel regardless of the switches' differing top housings.
Ultimately, the combined effect of both housing materials presents a unique sound experience in each switch. The Jupiter Brown's top housing provides brightness, supported by a nylon bottom housing that ensures a comfortable tactile response. In contrast, the Twilight's nylon top housing contributes to a warmer, rounder sound while also delivering that same cushioned feel through its nylon bottom. If you are looking for a sharper acoustic response, the Jupiter Brown may be preferable, whereas for a more subdued and full-bodied sound, the HMX Twilight would excel. Based on these distinctions, both switches offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences while achieving similar results in terms of bottom-out sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Jupiter Brown requires an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, which will appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Twilight switch features a lighter actuation force of only 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for users who favor a more effortless typing experience during long sessions. As such, the Twilight switch is the lighter option and is likely to accommodate typists looking for less physical effort, whereas the Jupiter Brown will be better suited for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and weighting in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, the Jupiter Brown measures 4 mm, while the Twilight offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.85 mm. This difference means that the Jupiter Brown provides a more substantial feel when pressing the key, appealing to those who appreciate a heartier depth in their typing experience. In contrast, the Twilight's shorter travel distance can be beneficial for gamers who prefer quicker response times, as it allows for more rapid actuation. Ultimately, while both switches offer different tactile experiences, the Gateron Jupiter Brown is the longer option, and the HMX Twilight is the shorter one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 Gateron Jupiter Brown switch is characterized by a classic tactile sound profile, offering a subtle "click" that is not overly loud but provides enough audio feedback to enhance the typing experience without being disruptive. This makes it an appealing choice for both casual typing and office environments. On the other hand, the HMX Twilight linear switch is notably quieter due to its extended travel distance, which somewhat dampens the acoustic impact while still retaining the signature nuances of HMX switches. This quieter operation can make the Twilight a more suitable option for those who prefer a silent typing experience or work in shared spaces where noise might be a concern.
When considering the feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown presents a medium-heavy weight with a smooth and polished keystroke that blends mild tactile feedback with a stepped design. This means that users can expect a gentle, yet noticeable resistance that engages them during typing while also providing a comfortable experience. The feel is accessible, catering to both newcomers and seasoned typists alike. The HMX Twilight, in contrast, offers a linear switch experience that emphasizes a smooth key travel without the prominent tactile bump, leading to a fluid, uninterrupted action from keystroke to keystroke. This gives the Twilight a distinct slickness and a different rhythm compared to the tactile sensation of the Jupiter Brown.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the HMX Twilight switches offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences. The Jupiter Brown excels in delivering a tactile, engaging feedback and a pleasant sound profile, making it a versatile option for various typing scenarios. In contrast, the HMX Twilight provides a more silent and seamless typing experience, ideal for those who prioritize smoothness and quietude. Ultimately, the choice between tactile and linear switches boils down to personal preference, whether you seek the feedback of the Jupiter Brown or the fluidity of the Twilight.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, it’s important to consider your specific typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate a tactile experience that is both comfortable and engaging, the Jupiter Brown is an excellent choice for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 70 grams provides a satisfying feedback without being exhausting, making it suitable for long typing sessions—especially if you enjoy typing or gaming that requires deliberate keystrokes. The polished and stepped feel of this switch can lend a sense of control and precision to your keystrokes, ideal for those who enjoy a bit of resistance as they type or play. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with less resistance, the HMX Twilight linear switch, with its lighter 50-gram force, is likely to suit you better. The extended travel distance and linear progression make this switch perfect for rapid key presses, whether you’re gaming, programming, or simply typing at high speed. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you wish to interact with your keyboard; the Jupiter Brown offers a tactile encounter while the Twilight provides a whisper-quiet glide that can enhance your efficiency and comfort.
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