Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and HMX Xinhai are two intriguing options that offer different qualities for users to consider. The Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that provides a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, making it a reliable choice for those who appreciate a traditional typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai is a linear switch that stands out with its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem, offering a softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While the Jupiter Brown excels in its melding of tradition and innovation, the Xinhai showcases a blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Brown and the HMX Xinhai both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for switches that prioritize sound clarity and resonance, particularly if RGB lighting is involved. While the top housings are the same between the two switches, their nylon bottom housings differ. The Jupiter Brown's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing also provides a similar deep and full sound profile, making both switches suitable for those seeking a more muted typing experience.
Despite the differences in their bottom housings, the overall typing experience on both switches is likely to be quite similar due to the shared polycarbonate top housing. The impact of the housing materials is felt differently depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This nuanced approach to housing materials allows for a more customizable typing experience, catering to different preferences for sound and feel. Both switches offer a blend of sharpness and resonance in their sound profiles, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the HMX Xinhai showcase the importance of housing materials in creating a distinct typing experience. While their top housings share the benefits of polycarbonate in producing a clear and resonant sound, their nylon bottom housings offer varying degrees of sound depth and fullness. This diversity in housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience, where the qualities of each material can be felt throughout the keystroke. Whether one prefers a sharper sound profile or a deeper, fuller one, both switches offer a unique blend of qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch. 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 Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter switch. The Jupiter Brown would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while the Xinhai would be preferred by those looking for a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Jupiter Brown has a slightly longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper keypress feel. On the other hand, the Xinhai offers a shorter travel distance, which is ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches provide a good balance between keypress depth and responsiveness, with the Jupiter Brown offering a more traditional feel compared to the shallower Xinhai. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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 subtle and soft acoustics, providing a more mellow typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as having a clacky sound profile, with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Jupiter Brown offers a mild and polished typing experience, creating a smooth and refined feel with a safe middle-ground tactility. Additionally, the Jupiter Brown is described as having a stepped tactile feel, allowing for a more controlled keystroke. In contrast, the Xinhai linear switch is noted for its bouncy and creamy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery typing experience. The contrasting tactile profiles of these switches cater to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and HMX Xinhai linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics. While the Jupiter Brown provides a softer and more traditional typing experience with a medium-heavy weight, the Xinhai offers a clacky and lively typing sensation with a unique acoustics profile. Both switches boast high-precision molds and enhance the overall typing experience. Despite their differences, users can expect reliable performance and aesthetic appeal from either switch option, depending on their preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a classic keystroke feel and high-precision molds, the Jupiter Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a unique acoustics profile and a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, the Xinhai could suit your needs better. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct qualities, so weigh your priorities in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience to make the best decision for your typing needs.
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