Kailh Box White V2 vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Banana present two distinctive options that cater to different typing preferences. The Kailh Box White V2 switches are revered for their crisp tactile feedback and loud click sound, making them an excellent choice for typists who enjoy the auditory and tactile sensations typically associated with clicky switches. Their satisfying response can enhance typing accuracy and speed, particularly in a gaming or coding environment. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches offer a more subtle approach with their tactile feedback and smoother actuation, attributed to their high-precision molds and unique two-stage springs. This makes them suitable for users who prefer a quieter experience without sacrificing the pleasant sensation of tactile feedback. Both switches have unique strengths; the Box White V2 is ideal for those who thrive on clear audible cues, while the Jupiter Banana appeals to users seeking a softer and more refined 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

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

$2.80 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches share a commonality in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles that these switches exhibit. The polycarbonate's translucency is particularly advantageous for users who wish to illuminate their keyboards with RGB lighting, as it allows light to pass through effectively. As both switches employ the same polycarbonate material, users can expect very similar audio experiences when typing. The shared characteristics of polycarbonate lead to a clear and resonant sound, enhancing the overall tactile enjoyment.

On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches diverges, with both switches incorporating nylon. This material is favored for its sound-absorbing properties and creates a deep, fuller sound profile. Nylon is typically a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, which results in a dulling effect on the sounds produced during key presses. Therefore, while both switches will deliver a similar crispness from the polycarbonate top housing, the impact of the nylon bottom housing provides a contrasting tonal quality. The deeper sound of the nylon base will resonate differently and contribute to a unique in-hand experience when pressing the keys.

In summary, the composite nature of the Kailh Box White V2 and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches reveals a blend of both similarities and differences in their construction. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, rendering them loud and bright upon key release, aligned with the needs of RGB enthusiasts. Contrastingly, the nylon bottom housing of both switches promotes a more subdued sound when the keys bottom out, which is where their sound profiles diverge. This synergy of materials results in a well-rounded typing experience, merging clarity and depth effectively, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy the benefits of both materials in a single switch design.

Weight

The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch provide distinct experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suited for users who prefer a gentler touch while typing or gaming, allowing for longer periods of use without fatigue. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana requires a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial, tactile feedback in their keystrokes. This means that while the Box White V2 is easier to press, the Jupiter Banana offers a firmer feel, which may enhance the typing experience for users who favor more resistance. Overall, users aiming for a lighter switch should opt for the Box White V2, whereas those seeking a heavier feel might find satisfaction with the Jupiter Banana.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, we find that the Box White V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jupiter Banana measures at 3.4 mm. This makes the Box White V2 the longer travel option, providing a slightly deeper keystroke experience which may appeal to those who favor a more substantial feel. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana's shorter travel distance offers a quicker response, making it more suitable for gamers or those seeking a snappier typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for either a more tactile depth with the Box White V2 or a faster response time with the Jupiter Banana.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In the realm of sound, the Kailh Box White V2 switches are characterized by their crisp tactile feedback and an unmistakable audible click that offers a satisfying auditory experience. This clicky sound signature tends to cut through the background noise, making each key press feel pronounced and impactful. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches produce a high-pitched, resonant sound profile that is sharp and clean. If you prefer a lighter, more refined auditory experience, the Jupiter Banana’s sound will likely appeal to you. Both switches emphasize sound clarity, although the Box White V2 gives a more pronounced click, while the Jupiter Banana leans towards a more pleasant resonance.

When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White V2 delivers on crisp tactile feedback, encouraging a confident typing experience. The tactile bump is quite striking, rewarding you with a noticeable response upon actuating the key. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches are known for their polished and creamy feel, creating a silky smooth typing experience. The factory lubrication, combined with high-quality materials, results in reduced friction and a tactile sensation that seems almost effortless. This smoother travel compared to the Box White V2 contributes to a uniquely luxurious feel when typing.

Considering all these aspects, both the Kailh Box White V2 and the Gateron Jupiter Banana offer distinct yet enjoyable typing experiences differing primarily in sound and tactile feedback. The Box White V2 is ideal for those looking for pronounced feedback and a clicky sound, while the Jupiter Banana is suited for users who prioritize smoothness and a refined sound profile. Ultimately, your choice may come down to personal preference: whether you favor the crisp, engaging click of the Box White V2 or the silky, resonant experience of the Jupiter Banana. Both can deliver satisfying results, but in unique ways that cater to different typing styles.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile experience with a pronounced click sound that provides clear auditory and haptic feedback, the Box White V2 is a great option. Its lighter actuation force of 50 grams makes it ideal for fast typists or gamers who appreciate rapid key presses without much resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued auditory profile and a smoother typing experience, the Jupiter Banana would serve you well. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 69 grams, these tactile switches offer a polished and creamy feel, perfect for those who like a controlled and satisfying key travel without the loud clicking noise. Overall, if sound and feedback are your priorities, go for the Box White V2; however, if you prioritize smoothness and a more subdued feel, the Jupiter Banana should be your switch of choice.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box White V2 Clicky

$3.50

$3.00 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more