Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, it's essential to consider the key characteristics of each. The Jupiter Red offers a smooth and seamless typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation, perfect for those who value consistency and precision. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch provides a tactile typing experience with a satisfying 70g bump and immersive resistance, creating a unique and engaging feel with each keystroke. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in typing style and feel. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, we can see that both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housings. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound. However, the Jupiter Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile also uses nylon in its top housing, providing a consistent sound experience throughout the switch.
While both switches use nylon in their bottom housing, the choice of material for the top housing sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing lends itself to a clearer and resonant sound, particularly when using RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. This difference in top housing material showcases how the material used can significantly impact the sound characteristics of a switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile of each switch. While the Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing, resulting in a consistent deep and round sound. Understanding how different housing materials affect sound quality can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Jupiter Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it lighter compared to the WS Heavy Tactile, which has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it heavier. The Jupiter Red is more suited for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Despite the differences in bottom out force, both switches share similar actuation force, so users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes efficiently. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches compared to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.2 mm. While the Jupiter Red offers a more traditional travel distance, the WS Heavy Tactile provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Jupiter Red. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key 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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50.
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 is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch is known for its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant sound, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience. The WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more immersive auditory feedback compared to the Jupiter Red, which focuses more on a consistent and seamless sound while typing. Both switches will provide satisfying sound feedback, but the WS Heavy Tactile switch will offer a more distinct and engaging typing experience in terms of sound.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch is known for being accented, bouncy, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a lively, pronounced feedback with a firm actuation force and responsive feel. While the Jupiter Red switch focuses on a gentle and approachable typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more tactile and dynamic feel, giving users a more interactive and responsive typing experience. Both switches will offer a comfortable typing feel, but the WS Heavy Tactile switch will provide a more tactile and invigorating sensation while typing.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Red switch provides a smooth and consistent sound and typing experience, ideal for users looking for a reliable and seamless typing feel. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a more engaging and tactile sound and feel, suitable for users who prefer a more dynamic and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, with both switches offering quality performance in their respective characteristics. Users can expect satisfying results with either switch, tailored to their specific preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium actuation force with a smooth typing experience and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force with a profound tactile experience, immersive resistance, and a captivating "thocky" sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the typing experience you are looking for.