Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Quinn offer unique experiences for users to consider. The Jupiter Red is a linear switch that provides a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation. On the other hand, the Quinn is a tactile switch that offers a crisp and light switch-like tactility, accompanied by a deep and resonant sound profile. While the Jupiter Red focuses on a seamless and uninterrupted keystroke, the Quinn provides a rich and immersive typing experience with its tactile bump. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and appeal to different preferences. The Jupiter Red is ideal for those seeking a consistent and smooth typing experience, while the Quinn is perfect for users who enjoy a tactile feel and a unique sound profile. 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
59g
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
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Quinn, the main difference lies in their top housing materials. The Jupiter Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. On the other hand, the Quinn's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Jupiter Red and the Quinn utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. The differences between the two switches may lie more in the top housing material as the bottom housing material remains consistent in both.
Overall, while the Gateron Jupiter Red and Quinn differ in their top housing materials, their bottom housing materials remain the same. This suggests that the switches may produce similar results in terms of sound profile and feel when pressed down. The choice between the two switches would then depend more on the specific sound characteristics desired, with the Jupiter Red offering a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, while the Quinn provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident 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 Quinn has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range, but the Quinn is slightly heavier, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Jupiter Red would be the better choice. Despite the slight difference in force, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience and similar results can be achieved depending on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Quinn tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Jupiter Red offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Quinn, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Quinn provides a slightly shorter travel distance which may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Jupiter Red offering a longer travel distance for a more traditional feel and the Quinn offering a shorter travel distance for a faster response. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preference for key press depth and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and skill levels. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offers a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound that adds depth and character to the typing experience, creating a rich auditory sensation.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Red switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and gentle key presses. On the other hand, the Quinn switch offers a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy feel, providing a responsive and lively typing experience with prominent tactility and fluid keystrokes.
Overall, if you prefer a seamless and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile switch with crisp tactility and a rich sound profile, the Gateron Quinn switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique combination of crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and tactile feedback when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer different qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
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