Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Sea Glass mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Reds provide a smooth and consistent typing experience with their medium-heavy actuation and high-precision molds, making them a preferred choice for those seeking a seamless keystroke. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switches stand out with their pastel color options and distinctive dry, wispy feel despite their 62g bottom-out force. While the Sea Glass switches offer a weightless typing experience, the Jupiter Reds maintain a neutral feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Red and Durock Sea Glass both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Jupiter Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is clear and resonant. In contrast, the Sea Glass utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, which produces a pleasant, brighter sound that is not particularly sharp. While both switches offer a transparent housing for RGB lighting, the Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing may provide a more distinct sound experience compared to the Sea Glass's blend.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Jupiter Red's nylon material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing provides a unique sound profile that is pleasant and slightly brighter. The choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the bottom-out sound and feel of a keypress, with nylon offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Sea Glass's blend.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Red and Durock Sea Glass showcase different housing materials that influence the sound profile of the switches. While the Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing may provide a sharper and clearer sound, the Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a pleasant and brighter sound experience. Similarly, the choice of bottom housing material between nylon and the blend in the Sea Glass can impact the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it is evident that both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, the Jupiter Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Sea Glass has a slightly higher bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Sea Glass slightly heavier in terms of pressing all the way down on the switch. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Jupiter Red for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier feel of the Sea Glass for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a medium actuation and bottom out force, offering a balance between a light and heavy typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, making it slightly longer than the Durock Sea Glass linear switch with a travel distance of 3.8mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Jupiter Red being on the slightly longer side. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sea Glass for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Jupiter Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 switch offers a neutral experience, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch provides a uniquely hollow sound signature that adds a touch of character to the typing experience. The sound produced by each switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's important to consider these elements when choosing between the two.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Red switch is polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience that is enhanced by its medium-heavy actuation. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch is frictionless and feathery, providing an exceptionally light and effortless typing feel despite its 62g bottom-out force. Both switches offer a mild typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users, making them suitable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch each offer a unique typing experience in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Red switch provides a more traditional, neutral sound and a polished, creamy feel, the Sea Glass switch offers a distinct hollow sound signature and a frictionless, feathery feel. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can choose between these two switches to achieve a seamless and consistent typing experience that meets their individual needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch or the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth, consistent keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation and softer backlight effects, then the Jupiter Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct dryness and airiness in your typing experience, with a weightlessness that defies expectations, then the Sea Glass switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider your personal preferences before making a decision.
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