HMX Game1989 vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the selection often comes down to personal preference and typing experience, particularly when comparing options like the HMX 1989 and the Gateron Jupiter Banana. The HMX 1989, classified as a linear switch, is celebrated for its deep and thocky sound profile, making it a favorite among gamers and typists who favor a smooth keypress without any tactile feedback. Its consistent actuation and silent operation can create a blissful typing experience, particularly in immersive gaming scenarios or quiet office environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana offers a tactile experience characterized by high-precision molds and softer backlight effects. This switch boasts a two-stage spring design that provides a distinct bump during keypress, offering rewarding feedback for typists and making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more interactive feel while typing. Each switch has unique attributes that cater to different preferences—whether it’s the quiet efficiency and linearity of the HMX 1989 or the tactile responsiveness of the Jupiter Banana. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Game1989 Linear

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$2.80 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX 1989 and the Gateron Jupiter Banana both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, a choice that significantly influences the sound profile of each switch. Both switches benefit from polycarbonate's inherent properties, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances resonance, allowing the sound generated to be clearer and more pronounced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an excellent choice for showcasing RGB lighting, contributing to the aesthetic appeal of both switches. When comparing the two, it is evident that their top housings are likely to produce similar auditory experiences, so users can expect a consistent sound resonance when engaging with either option.

In contrast, the bottom housings of both the HMX 1989 and Gateron Jupiter Banana are made from nylon, a material known for its unique acoustic properties. Unlike polycarbonate, nylon is a softer plastic, which absorbs sound waves more effectively and produces a deeper, fuller sound profile. This absorption results in a duller tone when typing, contributing to a more rounded auditory experience. Since both switches share this nylon bottom housing, they will similarly dampen sound, ensuring that bottom-out sounds are less sharp and more muffled. Therefore, while the top housings bring out higher frequencies, it is the nylon bottom housings that anchor the auditory experience with their softer, rounded characteristics.

Together, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the HMX 1989 and Gateron Jupiter Banana creates a balance of sound profiles that reflect the strengths of each material. The polycarbonate top enhances clarity and brightness, while the nylon bottom adds depth to the sound, leading to a rich auditory profile. As both switches incorporate these materials, users can expect comparable sound experiences when typing, with a clear delineation between the sharpness of the top housing and the fullness provided by the bottom. Thus, even though the individual characteristics of the housings differ, the combined effects deliver a unique and enjoyable typing experience across both models.

Weight

When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams to the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, which has a significantly heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, it's clear that they cater to different preferences in typing experience. The HMX 1989, being medium-light, is better suited for those who favor a lighter touch, making it a great option for extended typing sessions at work or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana's medium-heavy resistance offers a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who appreciate a firmer push while typing. As a result, the 1989 offers a lighter overall feel, while the Jupiter Banana requires more effort to actuate, making it the heavier switch. This difference in weight corresponds to the types of use each switch is suited for, with lighter switches often providing comfort over lengthy periods and heavier options delivering tactile feedback for a more engaged typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, the HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference indicates that the HMX 1989 offers a more traditional feel, providing a more substantial depth that can be preferred by those who enjoy a hearty keypress experience. Conversely, the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may appeal to gamers or users looking for faster response times, as a reduced travel distance generally allows for quicker actuation. Therefore, if you favor a switch that feels more abrupt and responsive, the Jupiter Banana is the better choice, while the HMX 1989 is ideal for those who appreciate a deeper, more tactile experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX 1989 linear switch is best known for its deep, thocky profile, which delivers a fuller, more bass-heavy auditory experience that can feel very satisfying while typing or gaming. This thockiness can drown out some of the higher frequencies found in more traditional switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is characterized by its high-pitched and resonant sound profile. With a sharp and crisp auditory feedback, these switches create a more pronounced and clear sound, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a higher-pitched, clean typing experience. However, it’s important to remember that sound is also influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycap materials.

When it comes to feel, the HMX 1989 promises a notable experience characterized by its deeply satisfying keystrokes, making every press feel substantial. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana switches offer a polished and creamy typing sensation, thanks to their smooth finish and refined design. This results in a slick and buttery experience, allowing for seamless key travel with reduced friction. The combination of these attributes in the Jupiter Banana effectively enhances the tactile feedback often preferred in typing tasks while providing a smooth motion that feels effortless.

In conclusion, the HMX 1989 linear switch delivers a thocky sound and a noteworthy keystroke experience, making it appealing for those who enjoy rich, immersive typing. Meanwhile, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a crisp, high-pitched sound along with a polished and creamy feel that caters to users looking for a smooth and pleasant typing surface. While their characteristics differ significantly in auditory feedback and tactile response, both switches have their dedicated fan bases and can provide rewarding typing experiences based on personal preferences. The choice ultimately depends on whether you favor a deeper sound and substantial feel or a sharp, crisp auditory feedback with a creamy tactile sensation.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you're looking for a switch that offers a medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams combined with a deep, thocky sound profile, then the HMX 1989 is your go-to option, especially for gaming or rapid typing where individual key presses need to feel smooth and uninterrupted. Its linear characteristic will provide a quiet, consistent keystroke without the tactile bump, making it ideal for those who prefer a more streamlined typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bit more resistance and tactile feedback, the Gateron Jupiter Banana, with its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 69 grams, would be more suitable. Known for its polished and creamy feel, this switch not only enhances typing comfort but also delivers a sharper, more resonant sound profile—perfect for both casual typists and those who appreciate tactile satisfaction. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what type of experience you value most in your mechanical keyboard, whether that’s smoothness and quietness for gaming or feedback and sound for typing enjoyment.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Game1989 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more