Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream

Overview

When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two excellent options for a linear typing experience. The Jupiter Red offers a smooth and consistent keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation that is perfect for those who prefer a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream provides a heftier typing experience with a deep sound profile that adds a unique touch to your typing. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$2.80 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, one notable difference is in the top housing material. The Jupiter Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Jupiter Red leans towards a crisper sound compared to the Cream's POM top housing.

Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Jupiter Red comes equipped with a nylon bottom housing, while the NovelKeys Cream features a POM bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder effect. Similarly, POM offers a deep and muted sound profile, contributing to a unique auditory experience. Despite their differences in material, both bottom housings aim to enhance the overall sound and feel of the switch when it is pressed, offering a tactile response that complements the keyboarding experience.

Overall, while the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream differ in their housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying sound profile for users. The use of polycarbonate in the Jupiter Red's top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, whereas the POM top housing of the Cream delivers a deeper and more muted tone. In terms of bottom housings, the Nylon of the Jupiter Red and the POM of the Cream both contribute to a fuller sound experience when pressing the keys. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a deeper tone, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in keyboarding sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, we can see some differences. The Jupiter Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the NovelKeys Cream's 55 grams. This means that the Jupiter Red will feel more responsive with a lighter touch needed to register keypresses. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Red requires 60 grams, while the NovelKeys Cream requires 70 grams. This makes the NovelKeys Cream feel heavier and more substantial to press all the way down. Ultimately, the Jupiter Red is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream is heavier and provides a more robust typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches offer a different typing experience, catering to individuals' preferences for a lighter or heavier feel.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the key travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches are equal and you can expect similar results when typing on keyboards featuring these switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch provides a neutral and versatile typing experience suitable for various environments, whether it be at home or in the office. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, which can provide a unique auditory experience with a deeper tone. It's essential to consider that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.

When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red is praised for its polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience. These qualities contribute to a smooth and refined keystroke with reduced friction, providing a sleek and effortless typing sensation. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch is known for its buttery, textured, and invigorating feel. With a buttery keystroke, users can expect a seamless and fluid typing experience, while the textured aspect may appeal to those who prefer a bit of friction in their keystrokes for tactile feedback.

Overall, choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red and Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches ultimately depends on personal preference regarding sound and feel. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences, with the Jupiter Red providing a neutral sound profile and a polished feel, while the NovelKeys Cream offers a deeper, resonant sound and a buttery, textured feel. By considering how each switch aligns with your typing preferences, you can ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience with either option.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, consider the key characteristics of each switch. If you are looking for a smoother and softer typing experience with a medium actuation force, the Jupiter Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a deeper sound profile while typing, the NovelKeys Cream could be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when selecting a switch for your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Cream Linear

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more