Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and Durock White Lotus offer distinct characteristics catering to diverse typing preferences. The Gateron Jupiter Red stands out for its smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, thanks to its linear design with a medium-heavy actuation. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus provides a light tactile feedback that strikes a delicate balance, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. While the Jupiter Reds offer a seamless and consistent typing experience, the White Lotus switches introduce a tranquil typing experience with vibrant RGB lighting effects. The Jupiter Red is polished, creamy, and silky, while the White Lotus is easy-to-press, low-pitched, and subtle. Each switch has its unique appeal, catering to different typing preferences. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock White Lotus switches both offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The Jupiter Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which provides a premium feel to the switch. Despite the differences in materials, both switches offer a translucent top housing option that is ideal for RGB lighting.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Jupiter Red and the White Lotus switches use nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deep and full sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This commonality in bottom housing material ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with a rich sound profile.
When considering the overall impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the switches, it's important to note that each material contributes differently to the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite the different housing materials used in the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock White Lotus switches, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and typing experience due to the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is slightly lighter at 45 grams compared to the Durock White Lotus tactile switch at 46 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Jupiter Red is heavier at 60 grams compared to the White Lotus at 56 grams. Both switches fall within the medium weight category, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Individuals who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the White Lotus, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Jupiter Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, we find that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide a similar typing experience. It is worth noting that this aspect makes them equally efficient in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most users in various settings. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch provides a low-pitched sound with a moderate actuation force requirement, ensuring a soothing and non-intrusive typing experience. The sound of both switches can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, providing a refined, smooth, and gentle typing experience. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus switch is characterized by being easy-to-press, mild, and subtle, offering a light and gentle resistance ideal for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing feel catering to different preferences.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch excel in different aspects. The Jupiter Red offers a seamless and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, while the White Lotus provides a delicate tactility without overwhelming the user. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile and polished feel or a low-pitched sound with an easy-to-press sensation, both switches offer distinctive qualities that cater to a variety of typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a medium to medium-light bottom out force with a smooth and consistent keystroke, the Jupiter Red may be the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a delicate tactility with a lower bottom out force and an exquisite RGB lighting effect, the White Lotus switch could be the perfect fit for your typing preferences. Additionally, take into account the sound and feel characteristics of each switch to ensure a typing experience that aligns with your preferences. Ultimately, whether you prioritize actuation force, smoothness, tactile feedback, or lighting effects, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
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