Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gazzew U4 offer distinct typing experiences. The Jupiter Red is a linear switch known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, ideal for those who prioritize consistency and medium-heavy actuation. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch that provides a sharp tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation, perfect for those who seek a quiet typing experience with a noticeable tactile feedback. While the Jupiter Reds focus on a polished and creamy feel, the U4s offer a muted and low-pitched sound profile. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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 Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gazzew U4 switches offer different sound profiles and typing experiences. The Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiff nature. This results in a higher-pitched sound that resonates well, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," produces a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While the Jupiter Red emphasizes clarity and resonance, the U4 focuses on delivering a deep and full typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the differences between the Jupiter Red's nylon and the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend are also notable. Nylon, as used in the Jupiter Red, offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder typing experience. The U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing complements the top housing, delivering a similarly rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both switches prioritize sound quality and aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, with each material contributing unique characteristics to the overall sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gazzew U4 will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While the Jupiter Red utilizes polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound, the Gazzew U4's proprietary blend offers a rich and deep typing experience. Both switches excel in providing unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a clear and resonant sound or a deep and full typing experience, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch are quite similar, with the Jupiter Red having a bottom out force of 60 grams and the U4 having a bottom out force of 62 grams. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light and responsive typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch, either of these switches would be a good choice for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, for those who prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience, they may want to consider options with higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, both the Jupiter Red and U4 switches offer a medium force that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Jupiter Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4. In terms of typing or gaming preferences, those who prefer a deeper press may lean towards the Jupiter Red, while those seeking a more responsive feel might opt for the U4. Both switches offer a balance between actuation force and travel distance, providing users with a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80, whereas the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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 offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound, creating a quieter typing experience with a more bass-heavy tone. Depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps, both switches can deliver satisfying sound profiles, with the Jupiter Red being more versatile and the U4 offering a whisper-quiet operation.
When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Red switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 switch is characterized by a sharp tactile bump, offering high feedback intensity with a distinct and crisp tactile feel. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations, with the Jupiter Red focusing on smoothness and the U4 emphasizing a pronounced tactile response for a more tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Red provides a neutral sound profile and a polished, creamy typing experience, while the U4 delivers a muted sound and a sharp tactile bump for a quieter and more tactile typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Jupiter Red offering a smoother feel and the U4 delivering a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with medium actuation force, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile bump with a plush bottom-out sensation and a whisper-quiet sound profile, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so it's essential to consider what aspects are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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