Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Tom mechanical keyboard switches, you have two distinct options to consider. The Jupiter Red is a linear switch known for its smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation and high-precision molds. This switch offers a consistent and seamless typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a polished and creamy feel while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom is a tactile switch with no specific standout features mentioned. Tactile switches typically provide a more pronounced tactile bump during actuation, appealing to 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
3.30 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
The Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Tom both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in both switches results in a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, making both the Jupiter Red and the Tom visually appealing options for those looking to add some flair to their keyboard setup.
In terms of their nylon bottom housings, both the Jupiter Red and the Outemu Tom offer a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic housings. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. This allows for a more satisfying typing experience, as the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel contributes to a more tactile and responsive key press.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Tom may differ, the qualities of each housing material are still present in either component. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, offering a more immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, ensuring an overall consistent and enjoyable typing experience for users of both switches.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Red requires a heavier force at 60 grams, while the Tom's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Jupiter Red may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Tom switch may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces. If the bottom out force of the Tom switch is similar to or higher than the actuation force, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, we can see that the Jupiter Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Tom's 3.3 mm. The Jupiter Red's 4.0mm travel distance provides a traditional feel, while the Tom's 3.3 mm offers a slightly shallower experience. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Tom for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial press may opt for the longer distance of the Jupiter Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience, with the shorter Tom providing a speedier response and the longer Jupiter Red offering a more traditional 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 Tom 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 offers a neutral profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, information about the Outemu Tom tactile switch's sound profile is not available, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Red switch provides a polished, creamy, and silky typing experience, combining smoothness and reduced friction to offer a sleek feel. It also falls under the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch, making it challenging to contrast it directly with the Jupiter Red.
Considering the subjective qualities mentioned, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch seems to offer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users. While the Outemu Tom tactile switch's qualities are unknown, users looking for a similar typing experience to the Jupiter Red may still find a tactile switch appealing based on personal preferences and needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium actuation force, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile response with a light actuation force, the Outemu Tom switches may be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile. So, consider your typing style and preferences when selecting between the Gateron Jupiter Red and Outemu Tom switches for your mechanical keyboard.
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