Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch to the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Reds provide a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience with a single-stage spring, making them ideal for those who value medium-heavy actuation and softer backlight effects. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers boast a shorter activation and long pole stem that result in a snappy and bouncy typing feel, reminiscent of the dynamic duo, Steph and Klay. While the Jupiter Reds are categorized as polished, creamy, silky, mild, and neutral, the Splash Brothers are described as neutral, mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, offering users a choice based on their individual 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
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Red and the Jwick Splash Brothers both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to other materials. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Both switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound profile and aesthetics thanks to their polycarbonate top housings.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Jupiter Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers also feature a nylon bottom housing with similar sound-enhancing properties. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Jwick Splash Brothers offer a unique combination of housing materials that affect the sound profile and tactile feedback of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound, their nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound experience. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance can help enthusiasts choose the right switch for their typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Jupiter Red has a medium actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Splash Brothers has a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams, but its actuation force is unknown. This makes the Splash Brothers ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. The Jupiter Red, on the other hand, offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, which some may find more satisfying for a substantial typing experience. Overall, the Jupiter Red is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Splash Brothers, providing a more tactile feel, while the Splash Brothers offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch. The Jupiter Red offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Splash Brothers provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Splash Brothers a favorable option in that regard. However, for those who appreciate a more hearty keypress, the Jupiter Red may be the better choice due to its longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer unique travel distances that cater to different preferences, with the Jupiter Red being slightly longer and the Splash Brothers being slightly shorter.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80, whereas the Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49.
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, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most users and environments. The sound of the switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is described as polished, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is characterized as mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with lively feedback and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable and satisfying typing feel, catering to a range of preferences.
Overall, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches offer high-quality typing experiences with different characteristics in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a smoother and more refined typing experience with the Jupiter Red or a lively and responsive feel with the Splash Brothers, you can expect similar levels of performance and satisfaction from either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, consider the bottom out force, typing experience, and sound profile that best suits your preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, consistent typing experience with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a unique creamy sound signature, along with a shorter activation and long pole stem for a great typing feel, the Splash Brothers could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct qualities, so it is important to identify what characteristics are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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