Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown, a tactile switch, to the Outemu Black, a linear switch, one can immediately notice the distinct differences in their key features. The Jupiter Browns are known for their tactile feedback, blending tradition with innovation by offering a classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switches lack any tactile bump, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke experience. While the Jupiter Browns are praised for their high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Outemu Blacks provide a straightforward linear keystroke with no distractions. Deciding between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference - whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a linear keystroke experience. 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
55g
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Black, it's clear that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
While the top housings of the Jupiter Brown and the Black are made of polycarbonate, their bottom housings differ in material with the Jupiter Brown featuring nylon while the Black also features nylon. This split between housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both switches maintain a similar sound profile with the use of nylon, producing a deeper and fuller sound during typing.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Black share similarities in their housing materials, particularly when it comes to the nylon bottom housing. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the use of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches also contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, making them ideal for users looking for a more distinct typing experience. Whether it be for gaming or typing tasks, these switches provide a unique sound profile that can enhance the overall user experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch reveals that the Jupiter Brown is lighter in both aspects. The Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, whereas the Outemu Black has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams. This means that the Jupiter Brown requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to fully press down compared to the Outemu Black. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience and a switch that is easier to press down, the Jupiter Brown would be the better option. However, for users who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the heavier force of the Outemu Black might be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. While both switches offer the same tactile feedback, the Gateron Jupiter Brown provides a tactile bump during actuation, while the Outemu Black offers a smooth linear press. Overall, despite their slight differences in feel, the travel distance remains consistent between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80, whereas the Outemu Black comes in at $3.10.
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 Jupiter Brown tactile switch is known for its smooth and satisfying click sound that is not too loud, making it suitable for both work and gaming environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch offers a quieter experience with a consistent keystroke sound, perfect for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard casing and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Brown switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a balance between tactile feedback and smooth key travel. With a subtle bump in the keystroke, these switches provide a comfortable typing feel suited for extended use. In comparison, the Outemu Black linear switch offers a straightforward linear feel with no tactile feedback, ideal for fast typists and gamers who prefer a consistent key press without any interruptions. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, catering to different preferences in typing style.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Brown provides a tactile experience with a medium-heavy weight and smooth click sound, while the Outemu Black delivers a linear typing feel with a quieter keystroke sound. Depending on personal preference and typing style, both switches can offer a enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a tactile bump or a linear keystroke, both switches are reliable options that will provide a great typing experience, ensuring maximum comfort and performance for your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight and tactile feedback, the Jupiter Brown may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy bottom out force and a linear typing experience without tactile feedback, the Outemu Black switch might be more to your liking. Consider the sound, feel, and design aspects of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences and needs. It is important to test different switches to find the one that provides the most comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for you.
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