United States: Free shipping on orders over $49

Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°

An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, both of which are linear switches. The Jupiter Red is favored for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, thanks to a single-stage spring that offers medium-heavy actuation. Additionally, this switch features high-precision molds and soft backlight effects, making it a top choice for those seeking a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° stands out for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unmatched smoothness, stability, and a quiet typing experience. While the Jupiter Red offers a polished and creamy feel, the Zero Degree 0° excels in its silent operation. 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

1.80 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.60 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

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Spring steel

Spring

20mm extended spring

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to these mechanical keyboard switches. With this similarity in housing material, users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetic benefits from both the Jupiter Red and Zero Degree 0° switches.

While the top housings of both switches are made from polycarbonate, the Gateron Jupiter Red differs from the Zero Degree 0° in its choice of nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. In contrast, the Zero Degree 0° shares this characteristic with the Jupiter Red, utilizing nylon for its bottom housing to provide users with a similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound output.

When it comes to the overall typing experience, the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° play a critical role in shaping the sound profile and feel of the switches. With polycarbonate top housings offering a sharp and resonant sound profile, and nylon bottom housings providing a deeper and fuller sound, users can expect a well-rounded typing experience from both switches. The distribution of these qualities between the top and bottom housings ensures that users can enjoy a harmonious balance of sound when both pressing down and releasing keys on their mechanical keyboards.

Weight

The actuation force of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is the same at 45 grams. However, they differ in terms of bottom out force. The Jupiter Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Zero Degree 0°, which has an unknown bottom out force. The Jupiter Red would be considered the heavier option due to its higher bottom out force, while the Zero Degree 0° offers a lighter typing experience with its unknown bottom out force. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, making them suitable for various typing preferences. In conclusion, users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch, while those seeking a slightly heavier feel may opt for the Gateron Jupiter Red.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Jupiter Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Zero Degree 0°. Both switches offer a relatively traditional travel distance, with the Jupiter Red being on the longer side and the Zero Degree 0° being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Jupiter Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.

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, the Gateron Jupiter Red and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches offer different characteristics. The Jupiter Red is known for its neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of typing preferences and environments. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° is designed to revolutionize silent typing, absorbing sound and reducing noise with its unique self-padding design and dual-rail structure. Both switches can provide a satisfying sound experience depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Jupiter Red switch is often described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not explicitly described in the provided information. However, given its innovative design focused on smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel, it can be inferred that the Zero Degree 0° switch may provide a similarly smooth and comfortable typing experience.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Red and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Jupiter Red provides a seamless and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation, while the Zero Degree 0° focuses on silent typing with its innovative design. Depending on your typing style and preferences, either switch can offer a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you get the results you desire in terms of sound and feel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Jupiter Red if you prefer a medium actuation force and a smooth, consistent typing experience. The Jupiter Red is ideal for those who value precision and softer backlight effects. On the other hand, opt for the Zero Degree 0° if you prioritize silent typing and seek unparalleled smoothness and stability. The Zero Degree 0° is designed to absorb sound and reduce noise, making it a great choice for those who work in quiet environments or prefer a softer, elastic feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article