Kailh Box White vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, many users gravitate towards the clicky Kailh Box White switch for its maximum audio feedback, reminiscent of "stepping on autumn leaves" with a crunchy feel and accented tactility. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, offering a consistent and strong return with the help of two-stage springs. While the Box White provides a distinct clicky experience, the Jupiter Banana offers a smoother and more refined tactile feel. 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
50g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the Gateron Jupiter Banana both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This creates a more resonant sound when typing and is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting. The clear nature of polycarbonate allows for a translucent appearance, adding to the aesthetics of the switches. Both switches offer a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal due to the shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box White and the Jupiter Banana utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. This results in a more satisfying typing experience with a fuller sound that is less sharp and crisp compared to the top housing material. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches provides a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel.
Despite the differences in top and bottom housing materials between the Kailh Box White and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, the overall typing experience for both switches is likely to be quite similar. The split qualities of the two housing materials contribute to different aspects of the typing sound and feel, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles attributed to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their housings.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, we can see that the Box White is lighter in both aspects with 50 grams actuation force and 60 grams bottom out force, while the Jupiter Banana is slightly heavier with 59 grams actuation force and 69 grams bottom out force. Both switches fall within the medium range, providing a balanced typing experience. The lighter actuation force of the Box White may appeal to those who prefer a softer touch, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Jupiter Banana offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, catering to users who enjoy a firmer keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm. In this case, the Box White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jupiter Banana. The Box White's 3.6mm distance provides a bit more depth when typing compared to the Jupiter Banana's 3.4mm distance. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76, whereas the Gateron Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a resonant and high-pitched typing experience with a sound akin to stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch also provides a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, with a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches excel in delivering a satisfying typing sound, making them suitable choices for those who enjoy an immersive audio feedback while typing. However, the specific sound produced by each switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Kailh Box White and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches are described as having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This indicates reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall feel of typing on these switches. Additionally, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is also characterized as offering a creamy typing sensation, akin to gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. This further contributes to a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Kailh Box White clicky switch is distinguished by its distinct clicking sound and accented tactility, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch stands out for its high-precision molds and two-stage springs providing a strong return and consistent feel. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences. Whether opting for the clicky sound of the Box White or the tactile feel of the Jupiter Banana, users can expect a premium typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a highly tactile and clicky switch with a medium bottom out force, the Kailh Box White would be a great choice. You will enjoy the satisfying click feedback and crisp sound profile it provides. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a tactile switch with a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Gateron Jupiter Banana would be more suitable for you. With its high-precision molds and two-stage springs for consistent feel, the Jupiter Banana offers a unique typing experience with a clean and sharp sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
Mentioned in this article
