Gateron Jupiter Red vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Jupiter Red and HMX Sunset Gleam each offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences. The Jupiter Red switch is celebrated for its smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, achieved through a single-stage spring that provides a medium-heavy actuation. Designed with high-precision molds, these switches deliver a polished and silky typing experience, making them ideal for users who seek consistency and a more subdued backlight effect. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, brings its own allure with a blend of materials that create a satisfying top-out and a delightful clack sound. Known for its excellent factory lubrication, the Sunset Gleam offers a tactile quality that some enthusiasts may find irresistible. Ultimately, the choice between these two linear switches may hinge on whether you value a smooth and muted typing experience or a more pronounced auditory feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$2.80 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches, one striking similarity stands out: both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material contributes to an exceptionally sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile for both switches. Due to the rigidity of polycarbonate, vibrations are transmitted with clarity, resulting in a more resonant acoustic experience. Additionally, both switches benefit aesthetically from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them particularly well-suited for RGB lighting. With their similar top housings, users can expect a comparable auditory experience, enhancing the dynamic qualities of their keyboard setups.

On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches diverges slightly, though both are made from nylon, a classic material known for its sound-dampening properties. The nylon used in the Jupiter Red switch produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a softer bottom-out feel that contrasts with the sharper top sound. This rounded acoustic profile is particularly appealing to those who prefer a more muted typing experience, as nylon absorbs more sound waves compared to harder plastics, resulting in less echo and a more tactile feedback. The HMX Sunset Gleam, sharing this nylon bottom characteristic, similarly contributes to a rich and subdued sound when typing.

In essence, while both the Gateron Jupiter Red and HMX Sunset Gleam share polycarbonate as a top housing material, enhancing their crisp sound signatures, their nylon bottoms ensure a consistent, deeper audio profile that characterizes the typing experience. The synergy of polycarbonate’s clarity combined with nylon’s softness allows users to embrace a harmonious switch response. As such, despite the differentiation in designs and branding, their shared building blocks cultivate a cohesive typing sensation for enthusiasts and gamers alike, promising a satisfying and immersive keyboard experience across both models.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we find notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force that influence their overall typing feel. The Jupiter Red requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, classifying it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam is lighter, with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of only 48 grams, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a softer touch for longer typing sessions. This distinction means that typists who value a lighter switch for comfort will likely favor the Sunset Gleam, while those in search of a more substantial typing experience might opt for the heavier Jupiter Red. Therefore, if one's typing preferences lean towards a firmer feel, the Jupiter Red is the better option, whereas the Sunset Gleam caters well to those seeking ease and lightness in their keystrokes.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch with that of the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Jupiter Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Sunset Gleam has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This distinction caters to different user preferences: those who appreciate a more traditional and hearty depth in their keystrokes may prefer the Jupiter Red for its greater travel distance, which promotes a satisfying feel and feedback. Conversely, the Sunset Gleam, with its shorter 3.5 mm travel distance, offers quicker responsiveness, making it an attractive choice for gamers seeking faster actuation and rapid key presses. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a deeper typing experience or a more immediate response time.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch presents a neutral profile that balances sound and actuation force, making it suitable for both newcomers and experienced users alike. This moderate sound level allows it to blend seamlessly into various environments, whether at home or in the workplace. In contrast, the specifics of the sound characteristics of the HMX Sunset Gleam remain unknown, though it is important to consider that the acoustics of any switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard enclosure and keycap choice, which can ultimately affect the dB levels produced while typing.

When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Red showcases a polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience. These descriptors indicate that users can expect an exceptionally smooth keystroke with minimal resistance, thanks in part to its factory lubrication. This refined sensation allows typists to glide effortlessly over the keys, creating not just a functional but also an enjoyable interaction with the keyboard. Unfortunately, the specific tactile feel of the HMX Sunset Gleam is not detailed, making it difficult to compare this factor directly.

Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch stands out for its versatile sound profile and superior feel, presenting a well-rounded option for anyone looking to enhance their typing experience with quality linear switches. While the sound and feel may vary between the two, expert choice will depend on personal preference, particularly given that the Sunset Gleam's characteristics remain less defined. Ultimately, both switches have the potential to deliver satisfying performance, albeit in different ways.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a smooth and consistent typing experience with an optimal bottom out force of 60 grams, the Jupiter Red is the way to go. Its polished, creamy, and silky feel paired with a medium-heavy actuation ensures that your typing is not only efficient but also enjoyable, making it ideal for prolonged use, whether at home or in an office setting. This switch maintains a neutral sound profile, so it won't disturb those around you, making it great for varied environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bottom out force of 48 grams, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a satisfying typing experience characterized by its subtle top-out and enhanced clack. Its factory lubrication adds to the smoothness, making it an excellent option for those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback without being overwhelming. Ultimately, choose the Jupiter Red for a balanced, robust typing experience or the Sunset Gleam for a lighter, more tactile response that should elevate your mechanical keyboard usage.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more