Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Gateron Type S

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and Gateron Type S both stand out as compelling options, yet they cater to different typing preferences. The Jupiter Red is celebrated for its exceptionally smooth and consistent keystrokes, characterized by a medium-heavy actuation and a single-stage spring. This switch is particularly appealing for those who seek a polished, creamy, and silky typing experience, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons where fluidity is key. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S brings a more substantial feel with its 65g bottom-out force, designed for users who enjoy a weightier keystroke. Its factory-lubed construction and deeper acoustic profile provide a satisfying typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more subdued yet engaging sound. Both switches embody unique qualities that target specific user desires, whether it's a seamless interaction or a more tactile feedback. 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

Gateron Type S Linear

$2.80 per 10

$4.70 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and Gateron Type S switches, a notable difference can be found in their top housings. The Jupiter Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucence. This stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile during key presses and releases, making it particularly effective for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback from their keyboards. The use of polycarbonate allows RGB lighting to shine through rather effectively, enhancing aesthetic appeal for those who appreciate illuminated keyboards. Conversely, the Type S switch is crafted with a nylon top housing, which inherently fosters a deeper and fuller sound profile during use. This material absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience, making it more suitable for users looking for a more muted keystroke.

Both switches share a common ground with their nylon bottom housings, providing a consistent sound and feel during typing. The nylon used in both the Jupiter Red and Type S bottom housings allows for similar acoustic characteristics; each housing type absorbs sound, producing a softer bottom-out feel. This results in a deeper tone that can soften the impact of keystrokes, appealing to users who prefer a more subtle auditory experience. Given that both switches feature nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect that aspect of their typing experience to be relatively similar, regardless of the differing performances of the top housings.

In summary, the juxtaposition of materials in the Gateron Jupiter Red and Type S switches creates a unique typing experience for users. While the Jupiter Red with its polycarbonate top housing emphasizes a crisper and more pronounced sound profile suitable for RGB lighting, the Type S's nylon top housing leans towards a softer auditory feedback, catering to those who favor deeper tones. However, the consistent choice of nylon for both bottom housings results in a baseline of similar sound absorption and tactile feedback, ensuring that users are granted a balanced performance in the context of bottom-out sounds across both switch types. Consequently, the user's preference in switch sound and feel can significantly guide their choice between these two intriguing options.

Weight

The Gateron Jupiter Red and Gateron Type S linear switches differ in both actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different typing preferences. The Jupiter Red requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a comfortable option for extended typing sessions and gaming. In contrast, the Type S has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. This increased resistance in the Type S may provide a more satisfying push feel, while the lighter Jupiter Red switch is likely to be less fatiguing during long periods of use. Therefore, the Jupiter Red is the better choice for users seeking a lighter switch for prolonged use, while the Type S is ideal for those who favor a heavier, more tactile experience.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a similar feel when pressing down on the keys for both switches, delivering a consistent tactile experience. Since the travel distances are equal, users who appreciate the smooth key presses of linear switches will find comparable performance in both options, making either choice suitable for achieving a satisfying typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Type S switches are characterized as neutral, providing a balanced and moderate sound profile. This neutrality makes them suitable for various environments, whether for office use or casual gaming, as they won't draw undue attention or create excessive noise. However, the Type S offers an additional layer of sound dynamics with its subdued quality, producing a softer, dampened feedback that further reduces any disruptive sound. While both switches can achieve a pleasant auditory experience, the Type S tends to lean slightly towards a more muted presence.

In terms of feel, the Jupiter Red stands out with its classification as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, contributing to an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. The careful construction and factory lubing of the Jupiter Red allow for minimal friction, making each keystroke feel like a gentle glide. This results in a typing experience that feels luxurious and effortless. In contrast, the Type S does not have any specific descriptors provided for its feel qualities, which leaves some ambiguity. However, given that it utilizes modern factory lubing techniques, one might expect the Type S to offer a smooth feel, potentially similar to that of the Jupiter Red, even if the exact characteristics are not detailed.

In conclusion, while both the Gateron Jupiter Red and Type S linear switches share neutral sound profiles suitable for a variety of usages, the Type S provides an intriguing subdued sound characteristic that might appeal to those wanting a quieter typing experience. The Jupiter Red excels in providing an exceptionally refined typing feel due to its polished and creamy qualities, while the Type S leaves some uncertainty in feel, possibly hinting at similar smoothness thanks to its factory lubing. For newcomers, choosing either switch will yield a satisfying typing experience, but the specific preferences for sound and feel may guide your decision based on your personal requirements.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Type S linear switches hinges largely on your typing preferences and style. If you value a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke that feels polished and creamy, the Jupiter Red is an excellent choice. Its 60g bottom-out force is ideal for those who prefer a medium touch and an effortless typing experience, making it great for long hours of typing, gaming, or content creation. On the other hand, if you find that a slightly heavier keystroke enhances your control and you appreciate a more subdued sound profile, the Gateron Type S, with its 65g bottom-out, might be more suitable. This switch not only provides a neutral yet deeper sound but also benefits from contemporary lubing techniques that rejuvenate its feel. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prioritize lightness and smoothness or a weightier, acoustically pleasing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Type S Linear

$4.70 per 10

Learn more