Gateron Jupiter Red vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Jupiter Red and the KTT Purple Star, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron Jupiter Red is known for its smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, thanks to a medium-heavy actuation and high-precision molds. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star boasts an all-POM construction for a buttery smooth typing experience and a very light 45g bottom-out, making it ideal for light typists. While the Jupiter Reds offer a seamless and consistent typing experience, the Purple Star switches provide ease and comfort for those who prefer a lighter touch. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Purple Star switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Jupiter Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those seeking a higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the Purple Star's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, appealing to users looking for a softer typing experience. While both materials are transparent, allowing for RGB lighting, the difference in sound profile sets them apart.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Jupiter Red utilizes nylon, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Similarly, the Purple Star's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, aligning with the characteristics of its top housing. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
When comparing the overall typing experience, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Purple Star ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials affects the overall sound production, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile with the Jupiter Red's polycarbonate housing or a deeper, more muted sound with the Purple Star's POM housing, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to various typing preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Purple Star linear switch's 43 grams. Both switches have a medium actuation force level, but the Jupiter Red requires a slightly greater force. When it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Red has a higher value of 60 grams compared to the Purple Star's 50 grams. This means that the Jupiter Red is heavier overall in terms of force required for bottoming out. The Purple Star is lighter in this aspect, making it a better option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In summary, the Gateron Jupiter Red provides a more substantial typing experience with heavier actuation and bottom out forces, whereas the KTT Purple Star offers a lighter typing feel for those who prefer a softer touch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Purple Star has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Jupiter Red. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. Gamers who prefer faster response times may opt for the Purple Star with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Jupiter Red. Both switches offer a different tactile feel based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80, whereas the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88.
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 Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various typing purposes. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch provides a low-pitched sound, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on the user's preference and setup.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red switch is described as polished, creamy, silky, and mild, providing a smooth, refined, and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This switch offers a seamless and comfortable typing feel that appeals to a wide range of users. Similarly, the KTT Purple Star switch is also described as mild and easy-to-press, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal force required to activate the keys. These qualities make it a comfortable choice for light typists looking for effortless key presses and reduced finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Red and KTT Purple Star linear switches offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Red provides a neutral sound profile with a polished, creamy feel, the Purple Star offers a low-pitched sound with an easy-to-press typing experience. Both switches can deliver a smooth and comfortable typing experience, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Depending on individual preferences and typing needs, users can choose between the Jupiter Red for a medium-heavy actuation and refined feel or the Purple Star for a light bottom-out and easy key presses. Ultimately, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience tailored to the user's preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prefer a medium actuation force and a smooth, consistent typing experience with softer backlight effects, then the Jupiter Red switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter actuation force switch that provides a buttery smooth typing experience and a neutral sound signature, then the Purple Star switch is the better option for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and actuation force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
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