Gateron Jupiter Red vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and SP-Star Meteor Orange stand out as popular options. The Gateron Jupiter Red is a linear switch known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation. This switch provides a consistent typing experience, making it a top choice for those who prefer a seamless feel while typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange is a tactile switch loved for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. These switches offer a soft and seductive typing experience, adding a subtle feedback sensation. Both switches have their unique qualities 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Nylon
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Red provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange produces a deeper, fuller sound by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, contributing to a similar deep and full sound profile, although the split qualities between the top and bottom housing will affect the overall typing experience.
While the nylon bottom housings of both switches result in a deeper and fuller sound profile, the top housings of the Jupiter Red and Meteor Orange offer unique characteristics. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Red creates a clear and resonant sound upon key release, enhancing the typing experience with a crisper sound profile. In comparison, the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange produces a duller and rounder sound, providing a different tactile feel when typing. These differences in top housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches play a significant role in determining their sound profiles and tactile feedback. The use of polycarbonate in the Jupiter Red's top housing results in a sharper and clearer sound, suitable for RGB lighting effects, while the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches share nylon bottom housings, contributing to a similar deep and full sound profile, but the split qualities between the top and bottom housing will influence the overall typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch differ in a few key aspects. The Jupiter Red has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Meteor Orange, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Meteor Orange is lighter at 57 grams, while the Jupiter Red requires 60 grams to bottom out. This makes the Meteor Orange a slightly lighter option overall. When considering weight, the lighter actuation force of the Jupiter Red may be preferable for those who need to type for extended periods, while the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Meteor Orange may provide a more substantial typing experience for others. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when using either of these switches, you will experience a consistent distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that whether you prefer the linear feel of the Jupiter Red or the tactile feedback of the Meteor Orange, you will get similar results in terms of travel distance. This offers a level playing field for users to choose based on switch type rather than distance traveled.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. However, the Meteor Orange also offers a thocky sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Jupiter Red is known for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key press with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange provides a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring a gentle and approachable feel for most users. Both switches offer a comfortable and pleasant typing sensation, making them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both provide a consistent and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a linear switch with softer backlight effects like the Jupiter Red or a tactile switch with a gentle tactility like the Meteor Orange, you can expect similar levels of satisfaction and performance from both options. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle and soft tactile feedback with a slightly lower bottom out force, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is the way to go. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a polished finish, providing a seamless typing experience suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for actuation force and tactility.
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