Gateron Jupiter Red vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to choose from are the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Meteor White, both of which are linear switches. The 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, the Jupiter Red is a top choice for those seeking a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White offers a subdued and gentle typing experience, with easy-to-push keys and a soft, pitter-patter sound profile. While both switches share qualities such as being categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Mild', the Jupiter Red leans towards being 'Polished' and 'Creamy' while the Meteor White is 'Thocky' and 'Polished'. 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Red and SP-Star Meteor White switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharp and high-pitched sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize sound quality in their mechanical keyboard experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for showcasing RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch.
Despite their similarities in terms of top housing material, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Meteor White switches differ in their bottom housing material. The Jupiter Red features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Meteor White also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect. However, due to the softer nature of nylon, the sound produced by the Meteor White switch may be slightly duller and rounder compared to the Jupiter Red.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Meteor White switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, with the polycarbonate top housing providing a sharper sound and the nylon bottom housing offering a deeper tone. Whether you prefer a crisp and resonant sound profile or a fuller and rounder sound, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Jupiter Red has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Meteor White has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 57 grams. This means that the Jupiter Red may provide a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force, while the Meteor White may offer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range of actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience a consistent distance of travel from top to bottom. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel with the same travel distance, providing a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. Consequently, users can expect comparable results in terms of tactile feedback and key actuation with either the Jupiter Red or Meteor White switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White 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
When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Meteor White switches are described as having a neutral profile, meaning they have a moderate sound level suitable for various applications. However, the Meteor White switch also has the added descriptor of being thocky, which implies a deeper, more satisfying sound when pressed. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Red switch is known for its polished, creamy, silky, and mild characteristics, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch offers a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience that is comfortable for most users. Both switches aim to deliver a seamless and comfortable typing experience, catering to those who value smooth and soft key presses.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing a neutral sound profile and a comfortable typing experience. While the Jupiter Red switch emphasizes a slightly heavier actuation force and softer backlight effects, the Meteor White switch stands out with its thocky sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium actuation force and a smoother keystroke experience with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter actuation force and a more subdued sound profile with a gentle typing experience, the Meteor White could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall feel you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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