Bsun Avocado vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the BSUN Avocado and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, both tactile switches that offer unique characteristics. The BSUN Avocado is renowned for its refreshing tactile experience, featuring a snappy bump followed by a buttery downstroke, delivering satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, with a strong return and consistent feel thanks to two-stage springs. While the Avocado is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Jupiter Banana is labeled as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant'. Each switch offers its own appeal and advantages, tailored to different preferences and typing styles. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and Gateron Jupiter Banana are quite similar in terms of the polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting capabilities, as its translucency allows for a more vibrant display. However, the differences may arise in how the top housing affects the sound when a key is released.
In terms of the nylon bottom housing, both the Avocado and Jupiter Banana feature this classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent typing feel across the board.
While the top and bottom housings of the Bsun Avocado and Gateron Jupiter Banana differ in material, the overall typing experience may not vary greatly. The qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting factors such as the sound profile and feel when pressing down or releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality housing construction that enhances the typing experience with their unique material compositions.
Weight
In comparing the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, we can see that the Avocado has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Jupiter Banana's 59 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Avocado requires 65 grams while the Jupiter Banana takes 69 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, with the Jupiter Banana being slightly heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The weight of a switch is a significant factor to consider, as a lighter actuation force like the Avocado's may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while a heavier force like that of the Jupiter Banana may provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have an equal travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience and tactile feedback provided by these switches will be quite similar. Both switches offer a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making them suitable options for typing enthusiasts.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
The Gateron Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Bsun Avocado tactile switch provides a mild, neutral sound signature that doesn't draw attention away from the typing experience, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile that can add an immersive auditory aspect to your typing sessions. Depending on personal preferences and the overall setup of your keyboard, the Avocado may offer a quieter typing experience compared to the more audible Jupiter Banana switch.
Moving on to feel, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch is characterized by its sharp, snappy, and invigorating tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing sensation without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a polished and creamy feel, boasting a smooth and refined typing experience enhanced by lubrication and high-quality materials. While the Avocado offers a more pronounced tactile bump and responsive feel, the Jupiter Banana provides a silky and gliding sensation with reduced friction.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Avocado and Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Avocado excels in providing a balanced tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile, while the Jupiter Banana offers a high-pitched auditory experience and a smooth, buttery typing feel. Depending on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or a smooth typing experience, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that can elevate your keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force that provides a satisfyingly tactile typing experience without being overwhelming, the BSUN Avocado switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and a smoother, more polished feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch might be more up your alley. Consider your preferences for tactility and sound when making your decision between these two switches to ensure you choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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