Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile are two tactile mechanical keyboard switches that offer a unique typing experience. The Jupiter browns are known for blending tradition with innovation, featuring a single-stage spring for a classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight. Conversely, the WS Light Tactile switches maintain smoothness with a snappy and perceptible tactile bump, along with a neutral sound signature. While the Jupiter Browns are categorized as mild, polished, stepped, the WS Light Tactile switches fall into the stepped, neutral, easy-to-press category. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. However, let's delve 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
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to utilize RGB lighting. However, despite these similarities, the differences in other housing materials can affect the overall sound and feel of the switches.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Jupiter Brown and the WS Light Tactile use nylon, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This choice of material for the bottom housing will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, providing a unique typing experience for users. The combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in these switches provides a balance of sharp and deep sound profiles.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile share similarities in their material compositions, the placement of these materials within the switches can lead to different typing experiences. The qualities of the bottom housing, particularly the nylon material, will influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches when keys are pressed. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when keys are released. This division of housing materials allows for a dynamic typing experience with a blend of sharp, clear sounds and deep, full tones.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, it is evident that the WS Light Tactile is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Jupiter Brown is the heavier option with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The Jupiter Brown offers a medium-heavy typing experience, providing a more substantial push feel for those who prefer it, while the WS Light Tactile offers a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches deliver similar results in terms of activation, but the difference in weight is significant for individuals seeking either a lighter or heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar keypress experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent travel distance, allowing for a uniform typing experience across different keys. Whether you choose the Gateron Jupiter Brown or the WS Light Tactile, you can expect a tactile switch with a 4mm travel distance, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a specific keypress 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 Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile comes in at $4.20.
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 switches have a sound profile that is not explicitly described, so it can be assumed to fall within a typical tactile switch sound range. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches are known for their neutral sound signature, making them suitable for various settings and preferences. Both switches will provide a satisfactory typing experience in terms of sound, but the WS Light Tactile may offer a more universally appealing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches are described as featuring a mild and polished typing experience with a stepped feel, providing a comfortable and refined typing experience. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches offer a stepped feel along with being easy-to-press, making typing effortless and reducing finger fatigue. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience that falls within the medium range of tactility, catering to a wide range of users. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant tactile feel while being easy on the fingers.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Jupiter Brown provides a more classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight and a blended traditional and innovative design, the WS Light Tactile offers a neutral sound signature and an easy-to-press feel, making it suitable for various typing environments. Depending on whether you prefer a more traditional or a more modern typing experience, both switches will deliver satisfying results, ensuring a pleasant and tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy weight with a bottom out force of 70 grams, then the Jupiter Brown may be the better option for you. This switch offers a classic keystroke feel and aesthetic appeal. However, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 50 grams, the WS Light Tactile may be more suitable, offering a smooth and snappy tactile bump with a neutral sound signature. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and desired typing experience.
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