Gateron Jupiter Red vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Miaowu both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Red is a linear switch that provides a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation force, along with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects for a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch, also a linear option, boasts enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action thanks to KTT's latest molds and the utilization of POK in its stem. While the Jupiter Red is described as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the Miaowu is labeled as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky'. Both switches have their own set of advantages, but diving deeper beyond generalities will help you make the best decision based on your individual preferences and typing style.
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
2.00 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
POK
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Miaowu switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches using RGB lighting. In terms of sound production, both switches will offer similar results due to their shared top housing material.
On the other hand, the Jupiter Red and Miaowu switches diverge in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Jupiter Red utilizing nylon and the Miaowu featuring the same material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the switches' top housings may provide similar sound profiles, the difference in bottom housing material may result in variations in tactile feel and sound when pressing and releasing keys.
When both the top and bottom housing materials differ in a switch, the qualities each material brings to the switch are divided between the two parts. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This split in housing materials can result in a unique typing experience, with each part contributing to the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the switch.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jupiter Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Miaowu's 43 grams, while the Jupiter Red also has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Miaowu's 50 grams. The Jupiter Red provides a more medium resistance feel, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Miaowu offers a lighter touch, which is ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force, so users can expect a similar typing experience in that aspect. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Jupiter Red offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on a key compared to the Miaowu. However, the difference of 0.5 mm may not be significant to everyone, and both switches fall within the range of standard travel distances. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Miaowu with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may lean towards the Jupiter Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and how each individual user wants to feel when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is considered to have a neutral profile, offering a moderate sound that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Both switches have unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will depend on whether you prefer a more neutral sound or a crisper, brighter sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is known for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and refined keypress with reduced friction. This switch provides a sleek typing sensation that is comfortable for prolonged use. In contrast, the KTT Miaowu switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with lively keypresses. The Miaowu switch offers a different tactile feel compared to the Jupiter Red, appealing to those who enjoy a more responsive and rebounding typing experience.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel characteristics of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, each switch offers a distinct typing experience tailored to different preferences. The Jupiter Red provides a neutral sound with a polished and creamy feel, perfect for users looking for a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch delivers a clacky sound with a bouncy feel, offering a more responsive and lively typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that you can achieve the desired typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-bottom out force and a smooth, consistent typing experience with softer backlight effects, the Gateron Jupiter Red would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, enhanced stem stability, and a bouncy feedback sensation, the KTT Miaowu might be the better option for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferred actuation force, typing experience, and feedback sensation. Both switches offer unique characteristics, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
