Kailh Berry vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Berry and Gateron Jupiter Red both offer unique qualities to consider. The Berry switches are known for their linear feel with a hefty typing experience, providing a springy feel with a chalk-like texture and a deep sound profile. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red switches offer a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation thanks to a single-stage spring. With high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Reds provide a consistent and seamless typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics to cater to different 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Berry and Gateron Jupiter Red switches both feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share these qualities in their top housings, they differ in their bottom housings.
The Kailh Berry switches use a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than the harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red switches also utilize a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper sound profile. Despite the differences in their top housings, both switches offer a similar sound and feel due to the shared nylon material used in the bottom housings.
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and Gateron Jupiter Red switches, it is evident that the choice of housing material greatly impacts the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. While both switches use polycarbonate in their top housings for a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housings offer different sound profiles with the Berry's resulting in a deeper sound and the Jupiter Red's providing a fuller sound. Whether using the Berry or Jupiter Red switches, the combination of these housing materials ensures a satisfying typing experience with a unique sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Red is the lighter option. The Berry switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while its bottom out force of 70 grams provides a medium-heavy typing experience. In comparison, the Jupiter Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium option in terms of force required. Both switches offer a different typing experience with the Berry being heavier and the Jupiter Red being lighter, allowing users to choose based on their preference for typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is clear that the Berry has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Jupiter Red's 4 mm. The Berry's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Jupiter Red's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and substantial key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience. Both switches offer reliable performance, but the Berry may result in a slightly quicker key press than the Jupiter Red due to its shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80.
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 Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. It is important to note that sound can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is described as having a textured feel, offering noticeable friction when pressed. This adds a unique tactile sensation to typing and may appeal to users who enjoy a bit of resistance in their switches. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch boasts a polished, creamy, and silky feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. The mild characteristics of the Jupiter Red switch make it approachable to most users, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the Kailh Berry linear switch stands out for its springy feel and chalk-like texture, along with its deep and bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a seamless and consistent typing experience with its medium-heavy actuation and high-precision molds. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on whether you prefer a textured and bassy experience or a polished and creamy typing feel. Ultimately, both switches will provide reliable linear performance with similar results in the linear switch category.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Berry linear switch or the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a springy and textured feel with a deep sound profile, the Berry switch may be the best choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and desire a smooth and seamless keystroke with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red switch might be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel characteristics described for each switch to determine which one aligns better with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your individual typing preferences and the overall feel and sound profile you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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