Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Ocean stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Jupiter Red is a linear switch known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, thanks to a single-stage spring that provides a medium-heavy actuation. With high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, it offers a consistent typing experience favored by many. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean is a tactile switch that provides feedback with every keypress, making it ideal for those who prefer 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
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Ocean feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housings results in a more clear and resonant sound due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches offer similar benefits when it comes to their top housings.
On the other hand, the Jupiter Red and Ocean differ in terms of their bottom housings, with the Jupiter Red featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Ocean utilizing a nylon bottom housing as well. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with other types of bottom housings. Despite this difference, both switches offer a similar typing experience when it comes to the material used for their bottom housings.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Gateron Jupiter Red and Outemu Ocean switches results in a unique sound profile that combines the sharpness and clarity of polycarbonate with the depth and fullness of nylon. While both switches have their own distinct characteristics based on their housing materials, they ultimately offer a similar typing experience with slight variations in sound quality. As a result, users can expect a consistent performance and feel when using either the Jupiter Red or the Ocean, making them both solid choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Jupiter Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Ocean's heavier actuation force of 55 grams, making the Jupiter Red more responsive. In terms of bottom out force, the Jupiter Red requires a force of 60 grams, while the information for the Ocean is unavailable. The Jupiter Red provides a medium feel in terms of force required for both actuation and bottoming out. The weight of a switch is crucial as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. Some users prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions, while others may favor a heavier switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the lighter Jupiter Red and the heavier Outemu Ocean will depend on individual preferences and typing requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be said that they offer a similar key press experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Jupiter Red or the Ocean, you can expect to get consistent results in terms of travel distance. Therefore, both switches provide a similar key press feel, with no noticeable difference in the length of travel distance.
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 Ocean 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is known for its neutral profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, details about the Outemu Ocean tactile switch sound profile are not available. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch also depends on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. These qualities make it a popular choice among users looking for a comfortable and effortless typing feel. Unfortunately, specific details regarding the feel of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch are not provided.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a smooth and consistent typing experience with a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch are not specified, it is likely that users can expect a tactile feedback with a unique feel. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results in terms of sound and feel depending on individual preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, you should choose the Jupiter Red if you prefer a medium actuation force and a smooth, consistent keystroke experience. The Jupiter Red is known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, making it a popular choice for those looking for a polished and creamy typing feel. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force and tactile feedback, the Ocean switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for actuation force, typing feel, and tactile feedback.
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