Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Silent Ink Black mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Jupiter Reds are praised for their smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes with a medium-heavy actuation, providing a consistent and seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black switches are preferred for their silenced operation, making them ideal for quiet environments. These switches offer a cushiony bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback. While the Jupiter Reds are categorized as 'Polished', 'Creamy', 'Silky', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the Silent Ink Black switches are categorized as 'Silky', 'Muted', 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, so choosing between them will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Red and Gateron Silent Ink Black both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Jupiter Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed, high-pitched, yet not overly sharp sound described as clacky. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and aesthetics by using premium materials in their construction.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Jupiter Red incorporates a nylon bottom housing that results in a deep and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend bottom housing that complements the top housing's characteristics with a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. While the specific materials differ, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red and Silent Ink Black comes down to personal preference regarding sound profile and feel. The use of different housing materials in each switch contributes to their individual characteristics, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Red offering a clear and resonant sound, while the INK blend top housing of the Silent Ink Black provides a clacky sound. Despite these differences, both switches share a commitment to quality and performance, ensuring a premium typing experience regardless of the housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Ink Black is heavier in both aspects. The Jupiter Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial and solid typing feel. While both switches fall within the medium weight category, the Silent Ink Black leans towards the medium-heavy side, offering a more forceful typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. Both switches offer a consistent and smooth keystroke experience as the key is pressed down. With the travel distance being the same for both switches, users can expect similar results in terms of the feel and feedback when typing. This makes choosing between the two switches a matter of personal preference based on factors other than travel distance. Ultimately, whether selecting the Jupiter Red or the Silent Ink Black switch, users can enjoy a satisfying typing experience with a consistent 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch provides a neutral typing experience with moderate sound levels, suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offers a muted sound profile, perfect for those who require a quieter typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and Silent Ink Black linear switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience. The Jupiter Red switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, providing a sleek and gentle keystroke feel. Similarly, the Silent Ink Black switch is also noted for its silky and polished attributes, ensuring an exceptionally smooth typing sensation with minimized resistance during key presses and releases. Users can expect a premium typing experience with either of these switches.
Overall, whether you choose the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch or the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, you can anticipate a top-tier typing experience with smooth and consistent keystrokes. The Jupiter Red offers a neutral sound profile and a polished, creamy feel, while the Silent Ink Black provides a muted sound and a silky, polished feel. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preferences for sound levels and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. Choose the Jupiter Red if you desire a smooth and consistent typing experience with medium bottom out force, perfect for general use. Opt for the Silent Ink Black if you need a quieter typing environment with a cushioned bottom-out feel and slightly higher bottom out force. Both switches offer different characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so select the one that aligns with your typing style and environment. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize typing feel or sound in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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