Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Red offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, making it perfect for those who prefer a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey provides a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump, ideal for those seeking a satisfying and silent switch. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them appealing depending on individual 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Silent Grey switches, one similarity is their use of polycarbonate in the top housing. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of both switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Jupiter Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Grey also features a nylon bottom housing, so in this aspect, both switches will provide a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the properties of nylon.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes evident that the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housing of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when a key is released. This distinction showcases how the choice of housing materials can affect different aspects of the typing experience, highlighting the importance of selecting the right switch based on personal preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is clear that the Jupiter Red is lighter in both categories. The Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Silent Grey has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, but the Silent Grey is slightly heavier with a medium-heavy classification. The lighter actuation force of the Jupiter Red may make it more appealing to those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the Silent Grey may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the travel distance of these two switches, it is evident that they offer the same amount of key travel, resulting in a consistent typing experience in terms of distance traveled when pressing down on a key. This means that whether you are using the Gateron Jupiter Red or the Outemu Silent Grey, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of key travel distance. It is worth noting that both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with their 4 mm travel distance, allowing users to type efficiently and effectively without any significant differences in key feel.
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 Silent Grey 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch provides a quiet typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a satisfying yet silent key press. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is not solely determined by the switch itself, but also by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is known for its polished, creamy, and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key press with reduced friction. This provides users with a sleek typing sensation that is comfortable and effortless. In comparison, the feel of the Outemu Silent Grey switch is not specified, but tactile switches typically offer a more pronounced bump and tactile feedback compared to linear switches, giving users a more tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Red provides a neutral sound and a polished, creamy, and silky typing experience, the Silent Grey offers a quiet and tactile typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Jupiter Red switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, the Silent Grey switch is the way to go. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to what feels best for you while typing. Happy typing!
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