Gateron Beer vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Beer and the Gateron Jupiter Banana mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their design and performance. The Beer switch, with its mesmerizing translucent green color inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle, offers a refreshingly lightweight and subtly tactile typing experience. It provides a stepped tactility and produces a characteristic clacky sound, making it ideal for those who prefer easy-to-press keys with a unique feel. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana switch stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, enhanced by two-stage springs for a strong return and consistent typing experience. This switch is polished, high-pitched, and creamy, offering a resonant typing sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Beer Tactile

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

$2.80 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Beer and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. These top housings are especially beneficial for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting due to the translucency of polycarbonate. However, the Jupiter Banana switch differs in its choice of nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the Beer switch's bottom housing. The impact of these housing materials on the sound and feel of typing varies between the switches, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.

In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate top housing in both the Gateron Beer and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches creates a clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness. However, the choice of nylon for the Jupiter Banana's bottom housing gives it a unique deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the clearer sound of the Beer switch's polycarbonate bottom housing. While both switches offer a sharp and crisp sound profile overall, the choice of housing material for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of the sound experience they provide to users.

Aesthetically, both the Beer and Jupiter Banana switches featuring polycarbonate top housings offer a translucent look that is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to the sound profile by creating a sharper and crisper typing experience. However, the nylon bottom housing in the Jupiter Banana switch provides a different aesthetic and sound experience compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Beer switch, with a focus on creating a deeper and fuller sound profile through the absorption of sound. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and aesthetic design.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it is clear that the Beer is lighter in both regards. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams. This makes the Beer more ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana provides a stronger push feel, making it more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference, with lighter switches being better for extended use and heavier switches offering a more satisfying typing experience for some users.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of key travel. The similarity in travel distance between these switches ensures that users will get consistent feedback and typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. The comparable travel distance highlights the attention to detail and consistency in Gateron's switch design, offering a reliable typing experience for users who prefer either the Beer or Jupiter Banana tactile switches.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for its characteristic clacky sound, which is sharp and snappy, offering a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is described as high-pitched and resonant, providing a sharp and clean sound profile that can be immersive during typing sessions. Both switches offer unique sound signatures, with the Beer switch being more clacky and the Jupiter Banana switch being higher-pitched and resonant.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. The stepped tactility of the Beer switch provides a subtler feel compared to other tactile switches, giving users a responsive and low-impact typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and silky key travel. The two-stage springs in the Jupiter Banana switch ensure a strong return and consistent feel, adding to the overall typing comfort.

Overall, while the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences. The Beer switch excels in its clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel with stepped tactility, while the Jupiter Banana switch stands out for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, along with a polished and creamy typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more subtle tactility with a clacky sound, the Beer switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force with a high-pitched and resonant sound, along with a polished and creamy feel, the Jupiter Banana switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal typing style and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Beer Tactile

$6.00

$4.59 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more