Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro mechanical keyboard switches, one can observe distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. The Jupiter Red is a linear switch, known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes with a medium-heavy actuation, providing a consistent typing experience favored by many. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro is a tactile switch with a medium tactility and fairly light touch, offering a balanced typing experience that is neither too mushy nor too harsh. Both switches have their own unique qualities that appeal to different types of typists. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches share quite a few similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches will provide a similar experience for users.
Where the two switches differ, however, is in their bottom housing materials. The Jupiter Red features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Violet Gold Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. This contrast in bottom housing materials may offer users a slightly different typing experience, with the Jupiter Red providing a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials - nylon for the Jupiter Red and polycarbonate for the Violet Gold Pro - may influence the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound with the Jupiter Red or a clearer, resonant sound with the Violet Gold Pro, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in terms of the force needed to trigger a keypress. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Red is heavier with a force of 60 grams compared to the Violet Gold Pro which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Jupiter Red switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to the higher force required to press a key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro may be a better option as it offers a smoother bottom out feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, with the Jupiter Red being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dareu Violet Gold Pro for faster response times, while those looking for a more substantial key press may opt for the Gateron Jupiter Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience desired. Nonetheless, both switches provide a relatively short travel distance compared to older models, resulting in similar quick and responsive actions when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
The Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various typing purposes. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch provides a polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience, thanks to its smooth and refined finish or factory lubrication. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch offers a stepped tactile sensation, giving a mild two-stage typing feedback that is less pronounced compared to other tactile switches. These differences in feel cater to different preferences for typing comfort.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the sound profile of both switches is neutral, the Jupiter Red provides a smoother typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation, while the Violet Gold Pro offers a balanced tactile feedback with a light touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference. If you prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium actuation force, then the Jupiter Red might be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile option with a light touch and a balanced typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro could be the switch for you. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision is in your hands to choose the switch that will enhance your typing experience and meet your needs.
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