Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Gateron Type S, two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Jupiter Brown stands out as a tactile switch, blending tradition with innovation by providing a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight. On the other hand, the Type S is a linear switch that boasts contemporary factory lubing techniques, delivering a weightier keystroke experience with a balanced and deep sound signature. While the Jupiter Brown is categorized as mild, polished, and stepped, and the Type S as neutral and subdued, both switches offer reliable performance and aesthetic appeal. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can decide which switch is best for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Brown and Gateron Type S switches both feature a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. However, the top housing material sets these switches apart. The Jupiter Brown boasts a top housing made of polycarbonate, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Type S switch features a nylon top housing that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deep and full sound profile, the differences in their top housing materials significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Gateron Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a more distinct sound when pressing down on a key and releasing it. Its stiffness enhances clarity and resonance, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Type S. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound experience. This difference in top housing material highlights the importance of both the top and bottom housing in creating a unique typing experience.
In terms of design and functionality, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Gateron Type S switches showcase how different housing materials can alter the sound profile and typing experience. While the nylon bottom housing of both switches creates a deep and full sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Brown produces a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those looking for a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Type S absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance is crucial for enthusiasts looking to customize their keyboard setup to achieve their desired sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, we can see that they both have the same actuation force of 55 grams. However, the Jupiter Brown has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the Type S's 65 grams. This means that while both switches may feel similar when initially typing, the Jupiter Brown will provide a more substantial feel when fully pressed down. The weight difference between the two switches may appeal to different preferences - the Jupiter Brown's heavier bottom out force may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience, while the Type S's lighter bottom out force may be favored by those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the distance they feel when pressing down on a key with either switch. Overall, both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience with a travel distance that ensures a comfortable and responsive feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80, whereas the Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70.
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 offers a traditional and classic sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. In comparison, the Gateron Type S linear switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound experience, making it suitable for a variety of environments whether at home or in a professional setting. Both switches offer a pleasant sound signature, but the Jupiter Brown leans towards a more traditional click while the Type S presents a quieter and more subtle sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle yet refined keystroke feel with its single-stage spring design. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch does not have specific descriptions available, but given its weightier keystroke with a 65g bottom-out, it likely provides a more robust and solid typing experience compared to the Jupiter Brown. Despite the differences in feel, both switches are designed to offer a comfortable and smooth typing experience, catering to users who appreciate different tactile preferences.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Gateron Type S switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Brown provides a more traditional tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy weight, the Type S offers a modern and heavier keystroke with a quieter and more neutral sound profile. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide reliable performance and aesthetics that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, you should choose the Jupiter Brown if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a classic keystroke feel. The Jupiter Brown is best suited for those who appreciate a weighty keystroke and a softer backlight effect. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy linear switch with a neutral sound profile and a dampened sound when pressed, the Type S would be the better option for you. The Type S is ideal for those who desire a weightier keystroke and a balanced, deeper acoustic experience. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing experience.