Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features for different preferences. The Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that provides a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, making it suitable for those who prefer a more traditional typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch offers a sharp tactile bump, ideal for individuals who enjoy a more pronounced typing feel. While the Jupiter Brown is known for its mild and polished characteristics, the Blueberry switch stands out with its snappy, buttery, and low-pitched attributes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$2.80 per 10

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, the differences between polycarbonate and POM become apparent. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Brown offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while POM top housing of the Blueberry creates a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches provide a unique sound experience, catering to individual preferences for typing sound.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Brown contrasts with the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Blueberry. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing offers a similar deep and muted sound profile as its top housing counterpart. This distinction in bottom housing materials further enhances the typing experience, adding nuance to the overall sound and feel of the switches.

While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry differ, the overall typing experience is influenced by both components. The impact of the bottom housing is felt during key presses, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches deliver a unique and satisfying typing experience, highlighting the importance of housing materials in creating distinct sound profiles for mechanical keyboards.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, both switches have an actuation force of 55 grams, providing a similar initial typing feel. However, the Gateron Jupiter Brown has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has a bottom out force of 80 grams, classifying it as a heavier switch. The difference in bottom out force between the two switches means that the Blueberry switch will require more pressure to fully press down compared to the Jupiter Brown switch. Depending on personal preference, some may find the lighter actuation force of the Jupiter Brown more comfortable for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the more substantial typing experience of the heavier bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual typing preferences.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of how far the keys travel from the top to the bottom. It is worth noting that a 4 mm travel distance is considered standard for many mechanical switches, offering a balance between responsiveness and key travel. As a result, whether you choose the Gateron Jupiter Brown or the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, you can expect a consistent typing experience with a familiar travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches offer distinct auditory experiences. The Jupiter Brown provides a sound profile that is yet to be described. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a low-pitched and resonant sound that is deep but not overwhelmingly loud. The choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference, as sound perception can vary greatly among individuals and can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycap combination used.

Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches also diverge in tactile feedback. The Jupiter Brown switches are described as mild, polished, and stepped, offering a refined and gentle typing experience that strikes a balance between comfort and tactility. In contrast, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches are characterized as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff, providing a more intense and responsive typing sensation with a pronounced tactile bump. The choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a softer and smoother typing experience or a more tactile and firm actuation.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches both offer tactile feedback, they excel in different aspects. The Jupiter Brown switches prioritize a classic and refined typing feel, while the NovelKeys Blueberry switches cater to those seeking a sharper and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to individual preferences in sound, feel, and typing style. It is recommended to try out both switches if possible to determine which one best suits your needs and preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch or Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, you should take into account the weight of the bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy weight, the Jupiter Brown may be more suitable for you with its 70-gram bottom out force. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier weight, the NovelKeys Blueberry with its 80-gram bottom out force could be the better choice. Additionally, consider the typing feel you prefer; the Jupiter Brown offers a more polished and stepped feel, while the NovelKeys Blueberry provides a snappier, buttery, and invigorating typing experience. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for weight, feel, and typing sound, as both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Brown Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry Tactile

$6.50

$6.25 per 10

Learn more