Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Cream Blue. The Gateron Jupiter Red is a linear switch that offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, making it ideal for those who prefer a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue is a clicky switch which provides a satisfying audible feedback with each key press. While the Jupiter Red boasts high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Cream Blue offers a more tactile typing experience. 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
65g
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Cream Blue, it's clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This means that both switches will likely offer a more rounded and muted sound when the keys are pressed down due to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. While the bottom housing may not be as visually prominent as the top housing, it still plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch.
On the other hand, the top housing material differs between the Jupiter Red and the Cream Blue, with the Jupiter Red featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Cream Blue sporting a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile when compared to nylon. The use of polycarbonate in the Jupiter Red's top housing creates a more resonant and high-pitched sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile with a more rounded and duller sound compared to polycarbonate.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Cream Blue may differ in terms of material, both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their contrasting housing materials. Whether it be the sharper and higher-pitched sound of the Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing or the deeper and fuller sound of the Cream Blue's nylon top housing, the choice of housing material significantly impacts the overall typing experience. Additionally, the softer nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a more muted sound when typing, showcasing the importance of utilizing the right materials in various parts of a switch for optimal performance.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it's clear that the Jupiter Red is the lighter option overall. The Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Cream Blue has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall under the medium category when it comes to actuation force, but the Cream Blue leans towards the medium-heavy end when considering bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the Jupiter Red may be the more suitable choice. However, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may find the Outemu Cream Blue to be a better fit. Regardless of the slight differences in force requirements, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users will experience a similar tactile feedback and key travel distance when using either of these switches. The linear switch of the Gateron Jupiter Red offers a smooth and consistent press from top to bottom, while the clicky switch of the Outemu Cream Blue provides an audible click sound upon actuation. Despite their differences in operation, the travel distance remains the same for both switches, ensuring that users will have a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Cream 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 providing a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force. This switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. In terms of feel, the Jupiter Red is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, offering a refined and smooth typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, there is no specific information available on the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound and feel characteristics. Based on the available information, it is clear that the Jupiter Red switch offers a more detailed and versatile typing experience, both in terms of sound and feel, compared to the limited information provided for the Cream Blue switch. Ultimately, while it is difficult to directly compare the two switches without complete information on the Cream Blue, choosing the Jupiter Red would likely result in a more satisfying and customizable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, consider the following factors. The Jupiter Red is a great choice for those who prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force of 60 grams. It offers a polished and creamy feel, making it ideal for users looking for a refined and silky typing sensation. On the other hand, the Cream Blue has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a clicky sound profile. If you enjoy the tactile feedback and audible click while typing, the Cream Blue may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force.
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