Gateron Jupiter Red vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Laurel are both compelling options to consider. The Jupiter Red is a linear switch renowned for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, medium-heavy actuation, and softer backlight effects, providing a seamless and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel, another linear switch, offers a medium-light feel with a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. The Laurel also features a subtly low-pitched sound profile. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and advantages that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Laurel, it is evident that the Jupiter Red features a polycarbonate top housing while the Laurel utilizes a POM top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Red creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, perfect for those who prefer high-pitched sound feedback. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Laurel produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound, offering a unique typing experience. Both materials have their own distinct advantages, catering to different preferences in sound profiles.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Jupiter Red is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Laurel also features a POM bottom housing, resulting in a deep and muted sound experience. Despite the difference in materials between the top and bottom housings of each switch, both the Jupiter Red and the Laurel offer a unique typing experience with their respective housing materials, catering to users looking for specific sound profiles.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Laurel play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While the Jupiter Red leans towards a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Laurel offers a deeper and more muted sound profile with its POM top and bottom housings. However, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials, catering to a variety of preferences in sound feedback. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Jupiter Red or a deeper sound with the Laurel, both switches offer excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch have some differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Jupiter Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Laurel's 43 grams, making it slightly heavier. However, the bottom out force of the Jupiter Red is 60 grams, while the Laurel's bottom out force is 50 grams, making the Laurel lighter in that aspect. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the Jupiter Red will offer a slightly firmer push feel due to its higher bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Laurel may be the better option, while the Jupiter Red would be more suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance. In general, those who are looking for a switch with a medium actuation force and bottom out force may find similar results in both switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Jupiter Red offers a longer travel distance, providing a more pronounced key press feel compared to the Laurel. On the other hand, the Laurel offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - if you prefer a deeper key press feel, the Jupiter Red may be the better option, while if you prioritize quick response times, the Laurel may be more suitable. Overall, both switches offer different travel distances that cater to varying preferences, but both are suitable for different types of users due to their unique characteristics.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
The Gateron Jupiter Red 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 Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch provides a low-pitched sound, giving a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound, as well as other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Red switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, offering a refined and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the KTT Laurel switch is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing feel. The decision on which switch to choose would again depend on individual preferences for typing feel and responsiveness.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Jupiter Red provides a smooth and consistent typing experience with medium-heavy actuation, the Laurel offers a balance of responsiveness and comfort with a low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, users can expect similar results in terms of overall quality and performance from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, you should consider your preference for actuation force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium actuation force and a smooth, consistent typing experience with a polished, creamy, silky, or mild feel, the Jupiter Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a responsive, snappy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel switch may better suit your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and typing style, so choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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