Gateron Jupiter Red vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Yanyu stand out as two exceptional linear options. The Jupiter Red offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, making it a favorite for those seeking a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch provides a delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile, ideal for prolonged typing sessions. While the Jupiter Red boasts high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Yanyu stands out for its material blend. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Yanyu feature unique housing materials that offer different sound profiles and typing experiences. The Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those looking for a more defined typing experience. In contrast, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a pleasant, brighter sound profile that is not as sharp. While both materials are durable and provide a good base for RGB lighting, the choice between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Jupiter Red's nylon material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Yanyu's unique Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing, which offers a brighter sound profile that is equally pleasant. While both bottom housings offer a different typing experience, they both contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed down.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the SP-Star Yanyu housing materials will depend on individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile with polycarbonate or a brighter, more soothing sound with a polymer blend, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, it is important to consider how each housing material will impact your overall typing experience and choose accordingly.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that there are key differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jupiter Red has a medium actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu has a light bottom out force of 43 grams, but the actuation force is unspecified. Both switches offer a different typing feel, with the Jupiter Red being slightly heavier overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Yanyu may be the preferred choice. However, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Jupiter Red due to its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch are both 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The Jupiter Red and Yanyu switches offer a consistent and reliable typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This makes them suitable choices for individuals who prefer a standard travel distance for their typing needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch fall under the neutral category, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for various typing environments. However, the Yanyu switch also features a thocky sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the Jupiter Red switch provides a polished and creamy typing experience, offering smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch offers a mild and subtle typing feel, perfect for those seeking a gentle resistance with a light touch. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Jupiter Red leaning towards a buttery sensation and the Yanyu focusing on a feather-light actuation for reduced finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch differ slightly in their sound and feel profiles, they both aim to provide a seamless and comfortable typing experience for users. Depending on personal preferences, the Jupiter Red may be more suitable for those looking for a creamier typing feel with a polished finish, while the Yanyu offers a subtle and feathery typing experience for those seeking a lighter touch. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for users looking to enhance their typing experience with linear switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider your preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force and a seamless typing experience with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter actuation force and a delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth keystroke and moderate sound profile, making them versatile options for various typing scenarios. Choose based on your desired actuation force and typing experience to enhance your keyboarding journey.
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