Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can often hinge on the type of feedback and sound a user desires while typing. The Gateron Jupiter Brown stands as a popular option for those who appreciate tactile feedback; its design incorporates a single-stage spring that creates a classic keystroke feel, offering a medium-heavy actuation force. This switch is known for its mild and polished response, making it ideal for typists and gamers who seek both reliability and an enhanced element of aesthetic appeal through softer backlight effects. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) caters to those who favor a smooth, linear experience. With its unique PA12 top housing, this switch delivers softer acoustics paired with a POM stem that produces distinctively crisp keystrokes. The Xinhai is ideal for users looking for a seamless typing experience without tactile bumps, allowing for fluid and rapid key presses. Each switch brings its own characteristics to the table, making the choice ultimately dependent on personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$2.80 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches, a distinct contrast is evident in the choice of materials for the top housings. The Jupiter Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This characteristic allows the switch to deliver clear acoustics, making it particularly favorable for enthusiasts who desire a more resonant typing experience. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy) incorporates a nylon top housing, which softens the acoustic output with a deeper, fuller sound profile. The inherent property of nylon—as a softer plastic—enables it to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Thus, the difference in materials leads to varied sound profiles influenced by the top housing material.

In terms of bottom housings, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Xinhai (Heavy) use nylon, a classic material that promotes a consistent acoustic result. The nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a similar deeper and fuller sound due to its sound-absorbing properties. Regardless of the differing top housings, both switches will deliver a cohesive sound quality attributed to the nylon used in their bottom components. This symmetry in bottom housing material suggests that typing on either of these switches will yield a comparable experience regarding the bottom-out sound, as both will elicit the softer and more muted sound signature characteristic of nylon.

The overall typing experience for these switches illustrates how the distinct properties of the top housings can either sharpen or soften the acoustics, while the shared bottom housing offers a level of consistency in sound quality. For users who prioritize a crisper sound, the Gateron Jupiter Brown stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, whereas those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience may favor the Xinhai (Heavy) with its nylon top. This duality highlights how the interaction between top and bottom housing materials cultivates unique sound dynamics, shaping the overall feel and sound of each switch while maintaining certain similarities due to the nylon's shared role in enhancing the bottom-out experience.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 55 grams, making them equally accessible for users who prefer a moderate typing experience. However, the bottom out forces differ notably; the Jupiter Brown has a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Xinhai (Heavy) requires only 62.5 grams to bottom out. This means that while both switches offer a consistent actuation feel, the Jupiter Brown presents a heavier bottom out experience. Users who favor a more substantial tactile feedback may lean toward the Jupiter Brown, whereas those looking for a lighter touch might find the Xinhai (Heavy) more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, given its reduced bottom out force. Overall, the key distinction lies in the bottom out force, which indicates that the Jupiter Brown is the heavier option while the Xinhai (Heavy) is the lighter one.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option when compared to the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference in travel distance significantly affects the typing experience. The Jupiter Brown offers a more substantial feel, catering to those who appreciate a deeper actuation for tactile feedback. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy), with its shorter 3.4 mm travel, provides quicker response times, which can be advantageous for gamers looking for speed and efficiency. While the traditional preference leans towards 4 mm as a comfort zone for many typists, the shallower travel of the Xinhai switch may feel too abrupt for those who favor a more pronounced depth in their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch produces a muted and warm tone, characteristic of tactile switches. This sound profile is shaped both by its design and the materials used, lending itself to a more traditional mechanical keyboard experience that is subtle yet satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch delivers a crisp and higher-pitched resonance due to its PA12 top housing and POM stem. This makes it potentially louder than Jupiter Brown, but not by much, as the linear switches are designed to be smoother with no tactile feedback to alter the sound profile. However, it's essential to note that the ultimate sound experience can vary greatly depending on the keyboard plate, construction, and keycap materials you choose.

When considering feel, the Jupiter Brown switches excel with their mild and polished nature. Users can expect a gentle typing experience, largely due to the switched design, which allows for a refined touch and reduced friction as you type. The stepped tactile feedback provides an engaging experience without being too jarring, making these switches appealing for both casual and professional use. In contrast, the specific feel of the Xinhai (Heavy) switch is not outlined, but given its linear design, one might anticipate a smoother and more consistent keystroke devoid of tactile bumps. The linear switch allows for uninhibited key travel, which often appeals to gamers and those who prefer fluid typing without interruptions.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offer distinct benefits tailored to different typing experiences. The Jupiter Brown’s warm sound and polished, mild feel create a traditional yet enjoyable environment, ideal for prolonged typing sessions. Meanwhile, the Xinhai (Heavy) intrigues with its crisp sound and potential for a smooth, seamless key experience. While the two may differ in tactile feedback, both switch types can deliver satisfying performance depending on user preference, whether you are drawn to tactile nuances or linear fluidity. Ultimately, trying both switches could yield a comprehensive understanding of which best suits your typing style.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a tactile feedback that provides a classic typing experience, the Jupiter Brown is a fantastic choice, especially if you appreciate a slightly heavier actuation force with a polished and mild feel. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a noticeable yet not overwhelming tactile bump, making it a great option for both typing and gaming where you want to feel each keystroke without being distracted by excessive noise. On the other hand, if you favor a smoother, linear action with a lighter touch, the Xinhai (Heavy) would be more suitable for you. With its crisp resonance and unique material composition, this switch excels in environments where quiet typing is preferred, such as in office settings, while still delivering satisfying performance for gaming. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a fluid, linear experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more