Gateron Jupiter Red vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Mint mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, you'll find that they each offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Reds provide a smooth and medium-heavy actuation with a single-stage spring, along with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, making them ideal for those seeking a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Mint offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem, providing a light and fleeting type feel. While the Jupiter Reds are categorized as 'Creamy', 'Silky', and 'Neutral', the KTT Mint is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Mint switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. While both switches share this top housing material, they each have their own unique design and branding.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Mint switches utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite using the same bottom housing material, the differences in design and construction of the switches may still lead to variations in sound and feel.
Overall, while the Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Mint switches share similarities in their housing materials, such as polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, the individual design and construction of each switch can still impact the overall sound and feel. The combination of these materials in different parts of the switch contributes to a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and the specific qualities that each user values in their typing experience.
Weight
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, the Gateron Jupiter Red has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the KTT Mint's bottom out force of 53 grams, making the Jupiter Red switch slightly heavier overall. This means that the Jupiter Red switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Mint switch offers a lighter typing experience better suited for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and desired weight.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance of a switch is crucial as it influences the overall typing experience and tactile feedback for the user. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress responsiveness and feel. This means that whether you choose the Gateron Jupiter Red or the KTT Mint, you can expect consistent performance and comfort during use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80, whereas the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91.
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, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various environments and user preferences. On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound with a neutral character, providing a mellower tone that may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience. Both switches can provide a satisfying auditory feedback depending on the overall setup and keycap choices.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is noted for its polished, creamy, silky, and mild tactile qualities, promising a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. Similarly, the KTT Mint switch also offers a mild and polished feel, making it comfortable and approachable for most users. Both switches prioritize a gentle typing sensation with a refined touch, ensuring a pleasant keystroke experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch excel in providing a smooth and consistent typing experience with their respective sound and feel characteristics. While the Jupiter Red offers a slightly heavier actuation and softer backlight effects, the Mint switch presents a lighter and more poppy typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience, but rest assured that both options are capable of delivering a quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force with a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience, along with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light and fleeting type feel with a satisfyingly smooth typing experience that offers a poppy thockiness, the Mint could be the ideal option. Keep in mind that the Jupiter Red provides a neutral sound profile and offers a polished, creamy, and silky typing experience, while the Mint offers a low-pitched sound and a mild, polished typing feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences in terms of actuation force, typing experience, and sound profile.
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