Gateron Jupiter Red vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Wine Red are both linear switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Jupiter Red is known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystrokes, with a medium-heavy actuation that provides a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Wine Red switches offer a pillowy light type feel with a deep and rich sound profile. While the Jupiter Red is categorized as polished, creamy, silky, mild, and neutral, the Wine Red is described as bassy and low-pitched. Each switch has its own set of advantages, with the Jupiter Red excelling in precision and backlight effects, and the Wine Red providing a satisfyingly deep 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
44g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Wine Red, one can see that they both feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, making it a visually appealing option. However, the Jupiter Red differs in its use of a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing. This highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience of a switch.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, the Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Wine Red differ in their bottom housing materials. While the Jupiter Red features a nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound profile, the Wine Red sticks to polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials showcases how the tactile feedback and sound of a switch can be influenced by the choice of materials used. Whether one prefers a softer and fuller sound from nylon or a clearer and resonant sound from polycarbonate, there is a distinct difference in typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in dictating its sound profile and tactile feedback. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in a switch allows for a balanced typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. Both the Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Wine Red provide unique typing experiences based on their housing material choices, showcasing how subtle differences can lead to varying sound profiles and tactile feedback. Whether one opts for the deeper sounds of nylon or the crisper sounds of polycarbonate, these housing materials can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch both have relatively light actuation forces, with the Wine Red being slightly lighter at 44 grams compared to the Jupiter Red's 45 grams. This means that both switches will provide a smooth and quick typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Red is heavier at 60 grams compared to the Wine Red's 55 grams. This means that the Jupiter Red will provide a bit more resistance when fully pressing down a key, giving a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a slightly lighter touch may opt for the KTT Wine Red, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may lean towards the Gateron Jupiter Red.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users can expect a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. This allows for a similar typing experience and feel when using either switch. The equal travel distance of both switches makes them a great choice for those who prefer a consistent key press feel without any variations in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80, whereas the KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71.
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 offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users in various settings. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound that adds depth and richness to the typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing feel depending on personal preference and setup.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red is praised for its polished, creamy, silky, and mild characteristics, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, information on the feel of the KTT Wine Red switch is not available. However, based on the provided description of a light type feel, it may offer a softer and lighter typing experience compared to the Jupiter Red.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Wine Red linear switches each bring unique sound and feel qualities to the table. While the Jupiter Red offers a medium-heavy actuation with a more neutral sound profile and polished typing feel, the Wine Red delivers a rich bassy sound and a pillowy light type feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. It is important to consider other factors such as keycaps and keyboard setup to further tailor the typing experience to personal liking.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force with a smooth and consistent typing experience, the Jupiter Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter bottom out force with a rich and deep sound profile, the Wine Red switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs.