Huano Acacia vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the pros and cons of various options. The Huano Acacia, known for its linear action, offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize fluidity in their typing or gaming sessions. With its medium-light weight, ample factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, the Acacia provides an impressive typing experience right from the start. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches cater to those who prefer a tactile feedback sensation, enhanced by their high-precision molds and two-stage springs. These tactile switches deliver a satisfying bump with each keystroke, along with soft backlight effects that add an aesthetic touch to the keyboard. While the Acacia is ideal for seamless, rapid inputs, the Jupiter Banana is perfect for users who enjoy the sensory feedback that tactile switches provide. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Acacia Linear

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$3.39 per 10

$2.80 per 10

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Housing materials

The Huano Acacia and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches share remarkable similarities in their housing materials, specifically in the use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a material known for its rigidity and translucency, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that enhances the overall auditory experience. The clarity and resonance offered by polycarbonate make it an excellent choice for switch tops, especially for users who enjoy RGB lighting, as it allows light to pass through effectively. In terms of aesthetics and sound, the consistent use of polycarbonate ensures that users can expect a similar crispness and vibrancy when activating their switches.

While the top housings are identical in their material composition, the bottom housings set the Acacia and Jupiter Banana apart, as each is made from nylon. Nylon is renowned for its softer properties, which produce a deeper and fuller sound profile in contrast to the sharper character of polycarbonate. This difference in the bottom housing material directly influences the tactile experience and auditory feedback when typing. Consequently, users of both switches will experience the unique impact of nylon, characterized by its sound-absorbing qualities, resulting in a more muted and rounded sound when bottoming out.

The differences in bottom housing materials indicate that each switch offers a unique blend of sound profiles. While both the Huano Acacia and Gateron Jupiter Banana provide a high-pitched auditory response from their polycarbonate tops, it is the nylon bottoms that create distinct tonal nuances. The pairing of stiffer polycarbonate with softer nylon showcases how variations in materials can alter the acoustic and tactile experience of each switch. Users seeking a balance between the sharpness of a polycarbonate top and the fullness of a nylon bottom will appreciate the combined qualities offered by both switches, reinforcing the importance of material selection in achieving desired sound and feel in mechanical keyboards.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces can be observed. The Acacia features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more comfortable typing experience over extended periods. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. This means that if you're looking for a lighter switch that allows for easier keystrokes—ideal for long gaming sessions or work—the Acacia would be a better fit. Conversely, the Jupiter Banana's heavier forces may appeal to those who appreciate the tactile feedback and resistance. Overall, the Acacia is the lighter option, while the Jupiter Banana is the heavier choice, with both providing distinctive experiences based on their varying actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, the Acacia offers a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jupiter Banana provides a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference suggests that if you're seeking a more responsive switch, the Jupiter Banana may be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke with a deeper feel, the Acacia's longer travel distance could be more satisfying. Ultimately, while both switches are on the shorter end of the spectrum compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, the Acacia provides a marginally deeper experience than the Jupiter Banana.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Huano Acacia linear switch is generally characterized by its pleasing auditory experience; however, specific descriptors for its sound have not been detailed here. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switches produce a bright and resonant sound, often described as high-pitched and crisp. This sharper sound may cater to those who prefer a more delicate auditory feedback while typing, especially when it feels vibrant and clean. Given the nature of sound in mechanical switches, factors like the keyboard construction and keycap materials will also play a significant role in the overall auditory experience, which could lead both switches to deliver satisfactory sound results depending on the setup.

When it comes to feel, the Huano Acacia is noted for its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, which contribute to a satisfying typing experience that is pleasantly smooth. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches emphasize a polished and creamy sensation, offering smooth key travel and a refined typing experience. The combination of high-precision molds and two-stage springs enhances their tactile feedback, ensuring a consistent return with each keystroke. Both switches are designed to provide a smooth operation, but the Jupiter Banana leans more towards a luxurious tactile feel, while the Acacia delivers a reliable linear experience.

In summary, both the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different typing preferences. While the Acacia provides a straightforward and reliable experience with minimal wobble and decent sound, the Jupiter Banana excels in delivering a more vibrant auditory feedback alongside a plush typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize the smooth consistency of the Acacia or the tactile richness of the Jupiter Banana, but both can yield satisfying performance depending on the keyboard build and personal taste.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter touch with a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke, the Acacia is an excellent choice. Its 55-gram bottom-out force, combined with generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, ensures a pleasant typing experience straight from the box, making it ideal for both typing and gaming scenarios where quick, fluid movements are essential. On the other hand, if you enjoy the feedback of a tactile switch and prefer a heavier actuation, the Gateron Jupiter Banana could be the better fit for you. With a 69-gram bottom-out force, it offers a more deliberate keystroke, enhanced by its polished, creamy feel and crisp, high-pitched sound. This can create a satisfying auditory and tactile experience, perfect for users who appreciate feedback in their typing and enjoy a bit of character in their keystrokes. Ultimately, it all comes down to whether you seek the smooth, effortless glide of the Acacia or the tactile richness and heft of the Jupiter Banana.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Acacia Linear

$3.39 per 10

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Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more