Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Durock Light Tactile

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices that stand out are the Gateron Jupiter Red, a linear switch, and the Durock Light Tactile, a tactile switch. The Gateron Jupiter Red is known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, thanks to a single-stage spring that provides a medium-heavy actuation. With high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, these linear switches offer a consistent typing experience for those who prefer a seamless feel. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility, offering a softer and more angelic typing experience compared to sharper tactile switches available in the market. While the Jupiter Red is categorized as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the Light Tactile falls under 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished'. When deciding between these two switches, consider the type of typing experience you prefer; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

Durock Light Tactile Tactile

$2.80 per 10

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

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Housing materials

In terms of housing materials, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Light Tactile switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound overall.

Despite the similarities in top and bottom housing materials between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Light Tactile switches, the distribution of qualities differs between the two switches. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, while the top housing material plays a bigger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This means that while both switches may offer similar sound profiles overall, the specific characteristics of the sound may vary slightly depending on whether you are pressing or releasing a key.

Overall, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Light Tactile switches showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in different parts of the switch. The combination of these materials allows for a balance between sharp, clear sound profiles and deeper, fuller tones, providing a versatile typing experience for users. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile with RGB lighting compatibility or a rounder sound profile with a softer feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Red is lighter in both aspects. The Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, with the Light Tactile being slightly heavier with a medium-heavy bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Jupiter Red, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may prefer the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Light Tactile switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, it can be said that both switches offer a consistent level of keypress feel in terms of distance traveled when pressed. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the depth the keys go down when using either switch. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get comparable results regardless of which switch they choose. Overall, both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offer a familiar keypress experience in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they both have a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level, making them suitable for various typing environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard they are mounted on and the keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth, refined, and gentle keystroke with reduced friction and a seamless key travel. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, emphasizing a gentle keypress and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable typing experience without sacrificing performance.

In conclusion, while the sound profiles of the Gateron Jupiter Red and Durock Light Tactile switches are similar with a neutral characteristic, they differ slightly in the typing feel they offer. The Gateron Jupiter Red provides a mix of polished, creamy, silky, and mild characteristics for a smooth and refined typing experience, while the Durock Light Tactile focuses on a mild and polished feel for a gentle keystroke. Ultimately, both switches are excellent choices for users looking for a consistent and pleasant typing experience, each offering their own unique qualities to cater to different preferences.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch or the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and actuation force. If you value a smoother, consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Jupiter Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more gentle tactility and a slightly heavier actuation force, the Light Tactile switch could be the ideal option. Both switches offer neutral sound profiles and a polished typing feel, so your decision may ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and tactile feedback. Make sure to test both switches before making your final decision to ensure you find the one that suits your typing style best.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

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Durock Light Tactile Tactile

$5.50

$4.25 per 10

Learn more