Gateron Jupiter Red vs. SP-Star RedBlue

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star RedBlue both offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The Gateron Jupiter Red is a linear switch that provides a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, making it ideal for those who seek a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue is also a linear switch but offers a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. The RedBlue switches are well-suited for those looking for a softer typing feel. Each switch has its own distinct qualities that cater to different 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

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

SP-Star RedBlue Linear

$2.80 per 10

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star RedBlue both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the visual effects. However, the Jupiter Red differs in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Jupiter Red.

In terms of sound and feel, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Red offers a different tactile experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue. On the other hand, the top housing material primarily impacts the sound when releasing a key, with polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant tone in both switches. Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both switches offer a similar clear and crisp sound profile thanks to their shared polycarbonate top housings.

Overall, the use of different housing materials in the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star RedBlue contributes to their unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. While the Jupiter Red's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper sound profile. Both switches' polycarbonate top housings provide a consistent crisp and clear tone, particularly suited for RGB lighting. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is clear that there are some differences between the two. The Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is considered medium-light. When considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the RedBlue switch as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Jupiter Red switch with its slightly heavier actuation force. Both switches provide a different typing experience, so users should choose based on their preferred level of force required for typing.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of how deep you need to press the keys. Essentially, whether you choose the Jupiter Red or the RedBlue switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance. This can be beneficial for users who prefer consistency in their typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth and linear keystroke without any tactile feedback, making them suitable for fast typists who prefer a quieter switch. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, providing a similar feeling when pressing down on the keys.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Red and SP-Star RedBlue switches offer different experiences. The Jupiter Red provides a neutral sound profile, suitable for various settings and users, offering a moderate actuation force. In contrast, the RedBlue switch has a low-pitched sound, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, the RedBlue switch is described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, both switches offer a polished typing experience. The Jupiter Red switch is described as creamy, silky, and mild, providing a smooth and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the RedBlue switch is also described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a sleek feel. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and approachable typing feel, suitable for a wide range of users.

Taking into consideration the sound and feel characteristics of the Gateron Jupiter Red and SP-Star RedBlue switches, users can expect a different typing experience with each switch. The Jupiter Red offers a neutral sound profile with a medium-heavy actuation, coupled with a creamy and silky feel for a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch provides a low-pitched sound with a thocky quality, complemented by a mild and polished feel for a gentle typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing needs.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you desire a smooth, consistent keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation force, opt for the Jupiter Red. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the RedBlue is the way to go. Both switches offer a polished feel, but the RedBlue also provides a mild typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

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SP-Star RedBlue Linear

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn more