Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Mountain Top mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes clear that both offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Jupiter Red is a linear switch known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, making it ideal for those seeking a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch is designed for office environments, offering a quieter typing experience while maintaining a light actuation. While the Jupiter Red is polished and creamy, the Mountain Top is bouncy and easy-to-press. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and specific use cases; 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Mountain Top both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Jupiter Red featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Mountain Top utilizes a nylon housing for both the top and bottom. The use of polycarbonate in the Jupiter Red's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. In comparison, the nylon housing of the Mountain Top results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, perfect for users who prefer a softer and rounder typing sound.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Jupiter Red and the Mountain Top provide distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate of the Jupiter Red's top housing offers a clear and crisp sound when pressing down on the keys, while the softer nylon housing of the Mountain Top absorbs more sound, creating a duller but fuller typing sound. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile with the Jupiter Red or a deeper sound profile with the Mountain Top, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to individual preferences.
In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of the polycarbonate top housing in the Jupiter Red allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the typing experience. While the Mountain Top may not offer the same translucent option, its nylon housing provides a classic and durable material that is known for its sound-absorbing qualities. Whether you opt for the Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing or the Mountain Top's nylon housing, both switches offer reliable construction and distinct sound profiles that can enhance your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, it is evident that the Mountain Top is the lighter option. The Jupiter Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Mountain Top's 40 grams. Additionally, the Jupiter Red requires a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Mountain Top only needs 50 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mountain Top switch would be the more suitable choice due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. However, individuals who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes may find the Jupiter Red to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, we find that the Jupiter Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Mountain Top's 3.4 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can have a significant impact on the feel of the switch when typing or gaming. A shorter travel distance like the Mountain Top may provide quicker response times, making it a popular choice among gamers who value speed. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Jupiter Red may appeal to those who prefer a more traditional and deeper typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80, whereas the Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00.
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 Gateron Mountain Top linear switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level, making them suitable for a variety of environments and users. The sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is often described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, offering a refined and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle, providing a lively, responsive, and gentle typing feel with minimal resistance during key presses. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Jupiter Red focusing on smoothness and refinement while the Mountain Top emphasizes responsiveness and ease of use.
Overall, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and Gateron Mountain Top linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Red provides a polished and seamless typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation, the Mountain Top caters to office settings with a quiet and light actuation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, typing feel, and intended usage. However, given their similar classifications in sound and feel, users can expect comparable results in terms of overall typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, consider the nuances of their characteristics. If you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force and a seamless, consistent typing experience with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light actuation force and a quiet yet not entirely silent typing experience, especially in professional settings, the Mountain Top might suit your needs better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. Choose wisely to enhance your typing experience.
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