Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Red Panda stand out as popular choices, each offering unique features and characteristics. The Gateron Jupiter Red is a linear switch known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, providing a consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda is a tactile switch that offers a light to medium amount of tactility, along with distinctive bottom-out and top-out sounds. While the Jupiter Red is preferred for its seamless typing experience, the Red Panda is favored for its tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
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
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Red Panda feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, providing a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Jupiter Red and the Red Panda utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This aspect adds a different dimension to the overall sound profile of the switches, complementing the characteristics of the polycarbonate top housing for a well-rounded auditory experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Red Panda differ in material, the unique qualities of each housing material are effectively distributed throughout the switches. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This split in housing materials adds depth and complexity to the typing experience, showcasing the thought and detail put into the design of both switches.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch which has an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a consistent typing experience once the key is fully pressed. For users who prefer a lighter touch, the Gateron Jupiter Red may be more suitable, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Alternatively, those who prefer a slightly heavier actuation force for a more pronounced typing feel may lean towards the Outemu Red Panda. In general, the actuation force and bottom out force of a switch are important factors to consider when selecting a keyboard switch based on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Red Panda has a shorter travel distance compared to the Jupiter Red. A shorter travel distance typically results in quicker response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. However, some may find shorter travel distances to feel abrupt. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more substantial key press experience for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and the desired 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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40.
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 that is suitable for a wide range of users and purposes, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a thocky sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying, giving a unique auditory experience when typing. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard frame and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is known for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a silky sensation when typing. Conversely, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch also falls under the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users due to its balanced qualities. Both switches offer a smooth and refined feel, making them comfortable options for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch have different sound profiles and slightly varied tactile experiences, they both offer smooth and comfortable typing experiences that cater to a wide range of users. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile or a thocky one, or enjoy a polished and creamy feel versus a mild and gentle one, both switches provide high-quality performance that will enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it would depend on your personal preference for typing experience. If you prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation, then the Jupiter Red would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light-medium amount of tactility with a bassier bottom-out sound and clackier top-out sound, then the Red Panda would be more suited to your taste. Consider the sound and feel characteristics described for each switch to help you determine which one aligns more closely with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to how you want your typing experience to feel and sound, so choose the switch that best suits your individual needs and preferences.
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