Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Melodic mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Red offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience with a medium-heavy actuation, ideal for those who prioritize a consistent typing feel. On the other hand, the Melodic is a clicky switch that brings a new freshness to the traditional clicky switch category, providing a satisfying click sound and tactile feedback while maintaining smoothness. The Jupiter Red is described as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', while the Melodic is labeled as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', 'Crunchy'. Both switches have their unique characteristics that appeal to different users' preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Melodic are quite similar in terms of their top and bottom housings. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that results in a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Similarly, both switches use a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer texture that absorbs more sound.
Despite the similarities in housing materials between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Melodic, the differences lie in the overall sound profile each switch produces. The Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing may contribute to a slightly different sound when compared to the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing, even though they share the same material. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of both switches may also result in subtle variations in the sound experience when typing on them. These slight differences in sound quality can be attributed to the specific design and construction of each switch.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Melodic share the same housing materials, the overall sound profile and feel of each switch may vary slightly due to other design factors. The nuances in sound and typing experience between the two switches may be subtle, but they can still be discernible to those with a keen ear. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience thanks to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In comparison, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 60 grams, also falling into the medium resistance category. Both switches have the same bottom out force, so users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the force needed to fully press the key. However, the Jupiter Red is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Melodic, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Melodic switch may be more suitable for users who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches will provide a consistent feel and response when typing or gaming. The travel distance of a switch is crucial in determining the overall typing experience and feedback, and in this case, both switches offer a similar distance for users to press down on. Whether you choose the Jupiter Red for its smooth linear feel or the Melodic for its satisfying clicky feedback, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 comparing the sound of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, we see a distinct difference in characteristics. The Jupiter Red offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various typing environments and experience levels. In contrast, the Melodic switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound, giving users a high-pitched and immersive auditory experience reminiscent of classic clicky switches. The choice between the two will heavily depend on personal preferences and the desired typing atmosphere, with the Melodic switch potentially providing a more engaging and lively sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Red switch boasts a polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing sensation, offering smooth and refined key presses with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, providing a fluid and responsive keystroke with pronounced feedback. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through different tactile qualities, catering to individuals seeking either a gentle and refined feel or a more lively and reactive typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch present distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Red offers a more neutral sound and a polished, creamy typing experience, while the Melodic switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound along with a buttery and invigorating feel. Ultimately, selecting between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, ensuring that users can tailor their mechanical keyboard experience to suit their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch or the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, then the Jupiter Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, the Melodic switch could be the perfect fit. Additionally, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a polished, creamy, or silky feel, the Jupiter Red may be more suitable for you. However, if you crave a resonant, crunchy sound profile and a buttery, invigorating feel, the Melodic switch might be more up your alley. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on what you prioritize in your typing experience.
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