Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Gold offer distinct experiences. The Gateron Jupiter Red is a linear switch that provides a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation. Known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, it is preferred by those who seek a consistent and seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch that offers a tactile feedback and audible click with every key press. While the Jupiter Red is categorized as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the Gold switch does not have any specific categorization. In general, the Jupiter Red is ideal for those who prioritize smoothness and consistency in their typing, while the Outemu Gold is more suitable for users who enjoy tactile feedback and audible clicks. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
The Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Gold switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Both switches will provide a similar sound experience due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Jupiter Red and the Outemu Gold switches utilize nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound which results in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on these switches, making them feel different from switches with polycarbonate bottom housings. Despite the difference in bottom housing material between the two switches, both will provide a similar typing experience due to their shared nylon bottom housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Gold switches offers different sound profiles and tactile feedback. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a clear and resonant sound, the nylon bottom housing of the switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches impacts the typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches will deliver a satisfactory typing experience for users looking for distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch are quite similar. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing them in the medium weight category. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience with either switch in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke and fully press down. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, either of these switches would be a suitable choice. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, both the Jupiter Red and Gold switches provide a satisfying level of resistance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to other factors such as sound, feedback, and overall typing feel rather than actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will have a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. Additionally, the equal travel distance of both switches indicates that they will provide similar levels of feedback and actuation force, making them suitable for individuals who prefer a consistent typing experience.
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 Gold 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 best known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, offering a medium-heavy actuation force for a consistent typing experience. In terms of sound, the Jupiter Red provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of users and environments. When it comes to feel, this switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, information on the Outemu Gold clicky switch is not provided, so it is difficult to directly compare its subjective qualities to those of the Gateron Jupiter Red. However, based on the available information, if the Gold switch has a clicky mechanism, it may offer a tactile feedback and audible click during typing compared to the linear feel and sound of the Jupiter Red.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a smooth and consistent typing experience, the Gateron Jupiter Red is a solid choice. If you are interested in a clicky switch with tactile feedback and audible clicks, the Outemu Gold may be worth considering. Remember, sound and feel are also influenced by factors such as keyboard build and keycap material, so be sure to take these into account when choosing the right switch for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, consider your preference for a smooth and consistent typing experience with medium-heavy actuation force. If you prefer a linear switch with softer backlight effects and high-precision molds, the Jupiter Red may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a satisfying click sound and tactile feedback, the Outemu Gold switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing experience you prefer, whether it be seamless and polished with the Jupiter Red or clicky and tactile with the Gold.
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