Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Piano both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Jupiter Red is praised for its smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, medium-heavy actuation, and high-precision molds, making it a top choice for those seeking a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Piano stands out for its pleasant typing experience, gliding push feel, and deep, creamy sound signature thanks to its proprietary material blend. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that may appeal to different users based on their 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Piano both offer unique housing materials for mechanical switches. The Jupiter Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is relatively stiff, leading to a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Piano utilizes a proprietary POM blend top housing, providing a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. While the exact details of this blend are unknown, it offers a different auditory experience compared to polycarbonate.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Jupiter Red utilizes nylon, which is a classic choice known for creating a deep and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Durock Piano incorporates a proprietary POM blend bottom housing. Like the top housing, this material offers a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. While the specifics of the blend remain a mystery, it is clear that the material choice plays a significant role in the overall sound experience of the switch.
When comparing the two switches, it is evident that they both prioritize sound quality through their unique housing materials. While the Jupiter Red focuses on a sharper and higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Durock Piano aims for a deep and satisfying sound profile with its proprietary POM blend. Additionally, the choice of bottom housing material in each switch contributes to the overall sound experience, with nylon offering a fuller sound in the Jupiter Red and the POM blend enhancing the depth in the Durock Piano. Ultimately, both switches deliver impressive sound profiles, albeit with different characteristics based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, we see that the Jupiter Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Piano, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Red requires 60 grams, while the Piano has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Jupiter Red may be the better option, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Durock Piano with its heavier bottom out force may be more suitable. Both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy typing experience, depending on personal preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience. Despite having the same travel distance, they may still differ in terms of actuation force, smoothness, and overall feel when typing. It's worth noting that having a consistent travel distance can provide a consistent typing experience across different keyboards with these switches installed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
The Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 versatile and suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch provides a deeper and richer bassy sound, adding a distinct depth to each keypress. Both switches can deliver satisfying auditory feedback depending on the keyboard and keycaps used in conjunction.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is known for its polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction and enhanced smoothness. Similarly, the Durock Piano switch provides a frictionless and silky typing sensation, ensuring effortless key presses with minimal resistance. Both switches prioritize a premium typing feel, catering to users who value a buttery smooth keystroke.
Considering all available information, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and Durock Piano linear switches offer top-tier performance in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Red provides a neutral sound profile and a polished typing experience, the Durock Piano stands out with its bassy sound signature and frictionless feel. Ultimately, users can expect a high-quality, seamless typing experience with either switch, depending on their personal preferences for sound and feel. Experimenting with different keyboards and keycaps can further enhance the overall typing experience with these exceptional linear switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force and a smooth, consistent typing experience, then the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a gliding push feel, deep sound signature, and a pleasant typing experience, then the Durock Piano linear switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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