Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Cherry MX Black mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer a linear typing experience but with distinct characteristics. The Jupiter Red is known for its smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes and medium-heavy actuation, appealing to those seeking a consistent typing experience with softer backlight effects. On the other hand, the MX Black switches from Cherry boast a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile, thanks to Cherry's Hyperglide tooling. While the Jupiter Red is described as 'polished', 'creamy', 'silky', 'mild', and 'neutral', the MX Black is categorized as 'low-pitched', 'textured', and 'stiff'. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Cherry MX Black, it is clear that they both use nylon for their bottom housings. The use of nylon in switch housings results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
However, where the two switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Jupiter Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black uses a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Jupiter Red.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Cherry MX Black showcase how different plastics can impact the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience, the choice of polycarbonate for the Jupiter Red's top housing creates a crisper sound profile, whereas the Cherry MX Black's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches provide unique tactile experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is clear that the Jupiter Red is the lighter option. The Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black is the heavier option with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that the MX Black provides a more substantial typing experience due to the higher force required for both actuation and bottoming out. Those who prefer a stronger push feel would likely opt for the MX Black, while those looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Jupiter Red.Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force, while the Cherry MX Black switch is heavier for those seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the key press depth. Whether you choose the Jupiter Red or the MX Black, you can expect consistent and familiar results in terms of key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80, whereas the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is considered to have a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches provide different auditory experiences, with the Jupiter Red being more versatile and the MX Black offering a deeper sound quality.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is praised for its polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience, featuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its textured and stiff feel, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and producing noticeable friction when pressed. The Jupiter Red provides a smoother and more refined typing sensation, while the MX Black offers a more tactile and resistant feel.
Overall, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, they both excel in providing high-quality linear switch options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can expect a consistent and satisfying typing experience with either switch. Whether you prioritize a more neutral sound profile and polished feel like the Jupiter Red, or prefer a low-pitched sound and textured feel like the MX Black, both switches are reliable choices that can deliver similar results in terms of performance and durability.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a medium bottom out force and a smooth, consistent keystroke experience, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a classic textured smoothness in your typing, the Cherry MX Black linear switch could be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing style, actuation force preference, and sound and feel preferences when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between Gateron Jupiter Red and Cherry MX Black comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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