Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Phoenix 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 Phoenix stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Jupiter Red is a linear switch that offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, making it ideal for those looking for a seamless and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix is a clicky switch known for its under-skirt click mechanism, creating a unique and distinct typing feel and sound profile. While the Jupiter Red is categorized as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Phoenix is categorized as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but it ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
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 Phoenix, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making them ideal for users who prioritize sound feedback. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic appeal of these switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, the Jupiter Red diverges with its nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. In contrast, the Phoenix sticks with polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, ensuring consistency in sound quality throughout.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, the Gateron Jupiter Red and Outemu Phoenix both offer a unique typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Red contributes to a more muted and rounded sound upon keypress, contrasting with the sharper and crisper feedback from the top polycarbonate housing. On the other hand, the Phoenix's consistent use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing ensures a uniform sound profile, emphasizing clarity and resonance in every keystroke. The split between top and bottom housing qualities is essential in understanding how each switch achieves its distinct sound characteristics.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Phoenix ultimately boils down to personal preference. If you prefer a switch with a combination of soft and stiffer housing materials for a varied sound experience, the Jupiter Red may be more suitable. Conversely, if you prioritize consistent sharpness and clarity in sound feedback, the Phoenix's polycarbonate top and bottom housing can provide a more uniform typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, highlighting the importance of housing materials in determining the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, we can see some differences. The Jupiter Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Phoenix, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Jupiter Red at 60 grams and the Phoenix at 62 grams. This means that while the Jupiter Red may feel lighter to initially press down, both switches require a similar amount of force to fully press the key. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Jupiter Red for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Phoenix for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Jupiter Red has a slightly longer travel distance, making it more suitable for those who enjoy a deeper press when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Phoenix offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by those looking for a quicker response time. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Jupiter Red being the longer of the two. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's personal preference for travel distance and 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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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, suitable for various typing environments and proficiency levels. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a crunchy sound experience reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, including the keycaps and board material.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Phoenix switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The Jupiter Red also includes descriptors such as creamy, silky, and mild, indicating a gentle and effortless keystroke. While the Phoenix switch shares the polished characteristic, the specific feel described is not provided. This suggests that the Phoenix switch may offer a similarly smooth typing experience but potentially with a unique clicky feedback that sets it apart from the traditional linear switch.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch present distinct sound and feel qualities for users to consider. The Jupiter Red offers a seamless and consistent typing experience with a neutral sound profile, ideal for those seeking a medium-heavy actuation force. In contrast, the Phoenix switch provides a crunchy sound sensation and potentially a similar smooth keystroke experience with its polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you prioritize a smooth and consistent typing experience with medium actuation force, the Jupiter Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique clicky feel and sound profile with a slightly higher actuation force, the Phoenix could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences when it comes to sound, feel, and actuation force in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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