Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches like the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Crystal Brown, it's important to consider their unique characteristics. The Jupiter Browns are tactile switches that offer a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, making them ideal for those looking for a balance between tradition and innovation. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Browns are also tactile switches, but lacking specific distinguishing features. While the Jupiter Brown boasts high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Crystal Brown falls under a different category altogether. When deciding between these two switches, it's important to consider your 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
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
The Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Outemu Crystal Brown both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to shine through. However, despite this similarity in material, the overall sound and feel of the switches may differ based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Jupiter Brown and the Crystal Brown utilize nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer nature and ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This contributes to a more tactile typing experience and can impact the overall feel of the switch when pressed.
While both switches feature similar housing materials in terms of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, the specific design and construction of each switch may result in subtle differences in sound and feel. The bottom housing material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will impact the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Jupiter Brown is heavier while the Crystal Brown is lighter. The Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as a medium-light switch. This means that the Jupiter Brown will provide a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier forces required, while the Crystal Brown will allow for longer typing periods without causing fatigue. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces. If a lighter feel is preferred, the Crystal Brown would be the better option, while those seeking a stronger push feel would lean towards the Jupiter Brown. Ultimately, understanding the weight differences between these switches will help users make an informed decision based on their typing preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch have the same 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, users can expect a consistent travel distance experience. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feedback and typing feel. As a result, whether you choose the Gateron Jupiter Brown or the Outemu Crystal Brown switch, you can expect a similar tactile typing experience with the same travel distance.
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 Crystal Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Jupiter Brown is often described as having a soft and muted typing sound due to its design and materials. On the other hand, the sound of the Crystal Brown is not as well-documented, so it may be difficult to predict how it compares in this aspect. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Brown switches offer a mild and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and gentle keystroke that suits a wide range of users. The stepped tactile feel of these switches gives a subtle bump during typing, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Crystal Brown switches is currently unknown, so it's challenging to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Overall, while the Jupiter Brown switches are known for their reliable performance, gentle feel, and subtle sound, the subjective qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown switches are less well-documented. As a newcomer, you may find that experimenting with both switches in person or seeking more user reviews can help you determine which switch best suits your preferences. It's worth noting that both switches fall within the tactile switch category, so you can expect a similar tactile feedback from both options.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should consider the bottom out force, feel, and sound profile that best suits your typing preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a more classic keystroke feel with a mild and polished typing experience, the Jupiter Brown may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and prioritize a specific sound and feel, the Crystal Brown may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision of which switch to choose comes down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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