Gateron Jupiter Red vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Jupiter Red, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch. The Jupiter Red is praised for its smooth and consistent keystrokes due to its medium-heavy actuation and single-stage spring design. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is known for its large tactile bump, offering a more exhilarating typing experience with a snappier sound profile. While the Jupiter Red provides a seamless and refined typing experience, the Polaris Purple delivers a more tactile and satisfying feedback. 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
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, while the Jupiter Red features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound, the Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This contrast in bottom housing materials may impact the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings in the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple allows for a unique combination of sound qualities in each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Red absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This difference in bottom housing materials may be noticeable when comparing the typing experience between these two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple plays a significant role in the sound profile of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide a clear and resonant sound, the contrasting bottom housing materials result in different sound profiles when typing. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound (Jupiter Red) or a sharper and crisper sound (Polaris Purple), the housing materials of these switches contribute to their overall performance and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Red is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Polaris Purple, whose actuation force is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Polaris Purple is heavier at 67 grams compared to the Jupiter Red's 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a satisfying typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Jupiter Red for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial push feeling may opt for the Polaris Purple for a stronger typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, meaning they both offer a similar feel when typing or gaming. This distance is relatively short compared to other switches on the market, providing a quicker actuation time for users. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience with a consistent feel throughout the keystroke. This similarity in travel distance allows for a seamless transition between the two switches, ensuring that users will get similar results no matter which one they choose. Overall, whether opting for the Jupiter Red or the Polaris Purple, users can expect a comfortable and efficient typing experience with a short travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments. The sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so these switches can provide a similar auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red is known for its polished and creamy typing sensation, offering a smooth and refined keypress. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and reduced friction. Both switches seem to offer a comfortable and approachable feel, with slight differences in the specific qualities they exhibit.
Considering the information provided, both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch present appealing qualities for different preferences. The Jupiter Red offers a seamless typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation, while the Polaris Purple delivers a tactile bump for a more engaging typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference regarding the type of typing experience one seeks.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom out force with a smooth and consistent typing feel, the Jupiter Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force with a pronounced tactile bump for a more exhilarating typing experience, the Polaris Purple could be the better option. Both switches offer neutral sound profiles and polished typing experiences, so your decision may ultimately come down to personal preference and typing style. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing needs and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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