Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue are two popular options to explore. The Jupiter Red is lauded for its smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, paired with a medium-heavy actuation for a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue stands out for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a bouncy feel with each press. Both switches offer a mild and neutral typing experience, but cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Reds are polished and creamy, the Tourmaline Blues are described as buttery and easy-to-press. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$2.80 per 10

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches, it is clear that both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. The translucency of this material is also beneficial for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. However, the Jupiter Red features a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Tourmaline Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches.

When it comes to the overall sound experience of these switches, the different bottom housing materials play a significant role. The nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Red contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Tourmaline Blue complements the crisp and clear sound profile of the top housing, enhancing the overall typing experience. While both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate for the top housing, the choice of bottom housing material brings distinctive qualities to each switch.

In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches both offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharp and resonant sound, ideal for RGB lighting setups. However, the difference in bottom housing materials sets these switches apart, with the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Red providing a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Tourmaline Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials determines the overall sound experience of each switch, offering users a variety of choices based on their preferences.

Weight

The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch both fall within the medium range, with the Jupiter Red being lighter overall. The Jupiter Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Tourmaline Blue has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Jupiter Red may be the better choice. However, for users who appreciate a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Tourmaline Blue may be more suitable. In terms of weight, the Jupiter Red provides a lighter typing experience compared to the slightly heavier Tourmaline Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch both share the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users will experience a consistent typing feel in terms of travel distance when using either switch. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience with a relatively short travel distance compared to other switch types. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feedback and overall typing experience. Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Red and Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches are both excellent choices for those seeking a keyboard switch with a 4 mm travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switches are classified as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making them suitable for a wide range of users and settings. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red is described as offering a polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience. These descriptors imply a smooth, refined finish with reduced friction, resulting in a sleek and gentle typing sensation. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue is characterized as buttery, easy-to-press, and mild. This suggests a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimal resistance required for key presses, leading to a comfortable and low-impact typing feel.

Overall, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Jupiter Red provides a seamless and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Tourmaline Blue offers a bouncy and enjoyable feel with a standard spring weight. Whether you prefer a more polished and refined typing sensation or a buttery and easy-to-press experience, both switches are versatile options that can enhance your typing enjoyment.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium actuation force, the Jupiter Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more immersive typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force and a thocky sound profile, the Tourmaline Blue could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force. Both switches offer quality performance and a satisfying typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either choice.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Tourmaline Blue Linear

$6.86

$3.89 per 10

Learn more