Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Durock White Lotus both offer unique advantages for different preferences. The Jupiter Browns are tactile switches that provide a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, perfect for those looking for a reliable performance with a touch of innovation. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches offer a light tactile option with a delicate tactility that is ideal for long typing sessions without overwhelming the user. Both switches feature high-precision molds and RGB lighting effects, but the White Lotus stands out with its removable light column for customizable illumination. While these general pointers can help you make a decision, it's important to dive deeper into their specific characteristics to ensure you choose the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Durock White Lotus switches feature top housings made of premium materials that contribute to a unique sound profile. The Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound with its relatively stiff plastic, ideal for those looking for a higher-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the White Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing offers a different feel with a premium touch, providing a distinct sound compared to traditional polycarbonate housings. Despite their differences, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with their high-quality top housing materials.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Jupiter Brown and the White Lotus switches utilize nylon, a classic housing material that offers a deep and full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. While the bottom housing may not be as visually prominent as the top housing, it plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. Both switches demonstrate the effectiveness of nylon in creating a pleasant typing experience with their bottom housings.
While the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Durock White Lotus switches may differ in their top housing materials, their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deep and full sound, creating a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Jupiter Brown or the premium feel of the modified PC & UPE Blend top housing in the White Lotus, the use of nylon in the bottom housing guarantees a consistent level of quality in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is evident that the White Lotus is the lighter option. The Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the White Lotus has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, putting it in the medium-light category. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the White Lotus for a smoother typing experience, while individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Jupiter Brown. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, providing users with a varied typing experience. 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 Durock White Lotus tactile switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you can expect a consistent distance travelled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a standard distance when typing. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, ensuring that users will get similar results regardless of which one they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 Jupiter Brown and the White Lotus offer different auditory experiences. The Jupiter Brown's sound profile is not specified, so it is unclear how it compares to the White Lotus, which is described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound. Low-pitched switches like the White Lotus tend to provide a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, which can be pleasing to the ears. However, it's essential to remember that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Brown and the White Lotus also offer distinct typing experiences. The Jupiter Brown is known for its mild, polished, and stepped feel, providing a gentle and refined typing experience with a subtle tactile bump. On the other hand, the White Lotus offers an easy-to-press, mild, and subtle feel. These characteristics make typing on the White Lotus effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The light actuation force and gentle resistance of the White Lotus switches create a low-impact typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, while the Jupiter Brown and the White Lotus switches have unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, both options cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a more classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, the Jupiter Brown may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a delicate tactility, easy-to-press keys, and the option for vibrant RGB lighting effects, the White Lotus may be the better fit. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a more traditional tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a classic keystroke feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a light tactile switch with a lower bottom out force and a delicate tactility that is perfect for extended typing sessions, the Durock White Lotus would be the perfect fit for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for the weight, feel, and sound of the switch that will enhance your typing experience. Choose wisely based on your individual typing style and preferences.
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