Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Blue. The Jupiter Red is a linear switch that provides a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, thanks to its single-stage spring and medium-heavy actuation. Known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Reds are favored by those who enjoy a seamless and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch that offers a tactile bump and audible click with each key press. While the Jupiter Red is described as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the Outemu Blue does not have any specific description. Both switches have their own unique features and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Blue switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches featuring RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard setup. By using the same material for the top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and overall performance.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches utilize nylon for its classic switch housing properties. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softness of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance of qualities in the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound upon key release.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Blue switches play a significant role in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile and nylon bottom housings for a deeper sound, the specific qualities of each material contribute to a unique typing feel. Users looking for a crisper and resonant sound may prefer the Jupiter Red with its polycarbonate top housing, while those seeking a fuller and deeper sound may opt for the Outemu Blue with its nylon bottom housing.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, we can see that the actuation force of the Jupiter Red is 45 grams, while the Outemu Blue has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Outemu Blue switch requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Jupiter Red. When it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Red requires 60 grams to bottom out, while the Outemu Blue's bottom out force is unknown. This indicates that the Jupiter Red switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Outemu Blue. Overall, those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Gateron Jupiter Red switch, while those looking for a bit more resistance might lean towards the Outemu Blue switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom is the same. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel with both switches. Overall, both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch offer a consistent and satisfying travel distance for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80, whereas the Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10.
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
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, offering a medium-heavy actuation and high-precision molds for a consistent typing experience. In terms of sound, the Jupiter Red is described as having a neutral profile, making it suitable for various purposes. As for feel, the Jupiter Red is polished, creamy, silky, and mild, providing a refined and smooth typing sensation.
On the other hand, there is no specific information available for the Outemu Blue clicky switch in terms of sound and feel. However, based on the general characteristics of clicky switches, we can expect a more tactile and audible typing experience compared to linear switches like the Jupiter Red. The Outemu Blue switch is likely to offer a crisp click sound and a tactile bump during actuation.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a smooth and consistent typing experience with a neutral sound profile and polished, creamy feel, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is expected to provide a more tactile and audible typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth and silent typing experience or a tactile and audible one.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium actuation force, then the Jupiter Red switch would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience with a lighter actuation force, then the Outemu Blue switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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