Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Cherry MX Brown. The Jupiter Red is a linear switch known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, offering a medium-heavy actuation thanks to its single-stage spring. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown is a tactile switch that provides a lighter typing experience with subtle tactile feedback and minimal noise. While the Jupiter Red excels in providing a seamless typing experience, the MX Brown offers a more subtle and tactile feel. 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
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Cherry MX Brown, we can see some notable differences. The Jupiter Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, especially when coupled with RGB lighting. In contrast, the MX Brown utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. However, both switches share the characteristic of having a nylon bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in typing.
The differences in housing materials between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Cherry MX Brown extend beyond just sound profiles. While the Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound, the Cherry MX Brown's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of both switches offers a softer material that absorbs more sound, further contributing to the overall typing experience. Despite these distinctions, both switches are known for their quality and performance, delivering a satisfying feel and sound to users.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Cherry MX Brown play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings of each switch impact both the sound and feel of typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, while the Jupiter Red and the MX Brown may differ in their housing materials, they ultimately provide a similar level of performance and comfort for users seeking a high-quality typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Jupiter Red requires a higher bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the MX Brown's 55 grams. This means that the Jupiter Red has a heavier feel overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Brown offers a slightly lighter typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Both switches provide a medium actuation force, but the slight difference in bottom out force may make a significant impact on the overall typing experience for users with specific preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, they both offer a similar typing experience in terms of how far the key travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Jupiter Red or the MX Brown, you can expect consistent results in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed. While one may be smoother due to being linear and the other may offer a slight tactile bump, their travel distance remains the same, providing a familiar feel for users of either switch.
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 Brown 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 known for its neutral profile, offering a moderate sound that is suitable for various typing scenarios. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound, giving users a deeper and richer auditory experience during key presses. Both switches can deliver different sound profiles based on the keyboard and keycaps used, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for users looking for specific sound characteristics.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch is described as textured, providing a slightly rougher feel during typing due to noticeable friction when pressed. While the Jupiter Red brings a silky sensation and gentle typing experience, the MX Brown offers a more textured feel that some users may prefer for a tactile feedback.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Red provides a smooth and consistent typing experience with a neutral sound profile, while the MX Brown offers a tactile feel with bassy sound characteristics. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches can cater to different user needs, ensuring a satisfactory typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch or the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Jupiter Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile feedback with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback, the MX Brown could be the right switch for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing feel and sound profile that aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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