Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and Kailh Sage stand out as popular choices for enthusiasts seeking different typing experiences. The Gateron Jupiter Red is a linear switch known for its smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes and medium-heavy actuation, making it a top choice for those who prefer a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness, appealing to users who enjoy a more tactile typing feel. While the Jupiter Red is described as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the Sage is categorized as 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Crunchy'. These general pointers provide a glimpse into the key characteristics of each switch, helping users decide 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
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 Kailh Sage feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users looking to enhance their typing experience with satisfying auditory feedback. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing aspect to the switches.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon bottom housings, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This can create a different typing experience compared to the top housing, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Kailh Sage are the same, they each play a distinct role in the overall sound profile and typing experience of the switch. The qualities brought by polycarbonate in the top housing enhance the sound when keys are released, while the nylon bottom housing impacts the sound and feel when keys are pressed. This division of housing materials contributes to a dynamic typing experience that combines both sharpness and depth in sound feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we can see some distinct differences. The Jupiter Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sage's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Red requires 60 grams while the Sage needs 70 grams, making it the heavier option. The Jupiter Red provides a balance between a light keypress for extended typing sessions and a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Sage offers a stronger push feel for those who prefer a more forceful typing experience. Overall, both switches offer medium actuation forces, but the Sage is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Jupiter Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sage. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0mm being the most common. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Sage a potentially preferred option for gaming. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Jupiter Red with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience one desires.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80, whereas the Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25.
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
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is known for providing a smooth and consistent typing experience with medium-heavy actuation, making it a top choice for users looking for a seamless keystroke. In terms of sound, the Jupiter Red has a neutral profile, suitable for various settings and user levels. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness, providing a satisfying auditory feedback reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Jupiter Red is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, offering a refined, buttery smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. This enhances the overall smoothness of typing and reduces friction for effortless keystrokes. In contrast, the Kailh Sage is known for providing an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, creating an immersive typing sensation with pronounced feedback intensity and a distinct tactile bump with each keypress.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a smooth and polished typing experience with neutral sound, the Jupiter Red might be the ideal choice. However, if you enjoy a sharp clicky feedback with pronounced tactile bumps, the Kailh Sage could be more suitable. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you'll get satisfying results based on your individual typing needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch or the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience with medium actuation force, then the Jupiter Red switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more clicky and immersive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, then the Kailh Sage switch is the way to go. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you're looking for before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Jupiter Red and Sage switches depends on your individual preferences and needs.
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