Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Jerrzi Violet, both tactile switches offering a satisfying typing experience. The Jupiter Brown stands out for its classic yet innovative design, featuring a single-stage spring and medium-heavy weight for a traditional keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet excels in providing a smooth actuation and pleasant tactility, accompanied by a neutral sound signature for a balanced typing experience. Both switches offer high-precision molds and aesthetic appeal, making them reliable options for keyboard enthusiasts. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Yes
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
The Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Jerrzi Violet both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. While both switches share this housing material, they may differ in other aspects of their design.
On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown and the Jerrzi Violet utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing experience and sound of the switches. Despite their similarities in having nylon bottom housings, the switches may vary in terms of how these materials affect the typing feel and sound.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Jerrzi Violet showcases a balance of qualities that impact the typing experience. While the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. By considering the unique properties of each housing material, users can choose a switch that best suits their preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it is clear that there are significant differences between the two. The Jupiter Brown has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. On the other hand, the Violet has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Jupiter Brown requires more force to trigger a keystroke and fully press down compared to the Violet switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Violet switch would be the better choice, as it allows for easier typing over longer periods of time. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Jupiter Brown would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Jupiter Brown offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Violet. However, both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Jupiter Brown being on the higher end and the Violet being on the lower end. Depending on personal preference, the Jupiter Brown may provide a slightly deeper key press experience, while the Violet may feel slightly quicker and more responsive. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is known for its neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various typing environments without being too loud or too quiet. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch also offers a neutral sound profile, providing a balanced and enjoyable typing experience that won't be bothersome to others. Ultimately, both switches deliver a similar sound experience that should meet the needs of most users.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Brown tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and refined keystroke that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, these switches are described as having a stepped feel, offering a subtle two-stage tactile sensation during typing. Conversely, the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch also offers a stepped feel, providing a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. Both switches offer a smooth and approachable typing experience that should be comfortable for most users.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Jerrzi Violet tactile switches offer similar sound profiles and tactile feels, making them both reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a more traditional and medium-heavy keystroke or a smoother and gentler typing experience, both switches provide a balance of performance and aesthetic appeal. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference and which specific qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth actuation, poppy tactility, and a neutral sound signature, the Violet may be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to prioritize what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch when making your decision.