TTC Brother vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Brother is favored for its lightweight actuation of 37g, providing a breezy tactile experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that delights clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, offering a consistent feel with two-stage springs for a strong return. While the Brother is known for its crunchy and easy-to-press nature, the Jupiter Banana boasts a polished and high-pitched feel that is creamy and resonant. 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
37g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for a more resonant sound, particularly beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the Brother also features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Banana. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
The contrasting factor between the Brother and the Jupiter Banana lies in their bottom housing materials. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, the Brother utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which offers a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer nature. This results in a switch that has a combination of sharper top-out sounds and deeper bottom-out sounds. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, providing similar sound properties as the Brother but maintaining a unique typing experience.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Brother and the Gateron Jupiter Banana result in varying sound profiles for each switch. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper and more resonant sound, while the choice of nylon in the bottom housing influences the depth and fullness of the sound produced. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Brother emphasizing a combination of sharper and deeper sounds, while the Jupiter Banana provides a balance between the two for a distinct sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in the actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Brother has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Jupiter Banana's heavier actuation force of 59 grams. Additionally, the Brother switch does not specify a bottom out force, while the Jupiter Banana has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 69 grams. This means that the Brother clicky switch may provide a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation and bottom out force, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and experience desired.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Brother switch slightly longer in its travel distance compared to the Jupiter Banana switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for gaming due to faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance could potentially impact the feel and performance of the switches for users who prefer a specific amount of key travel. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a crunchy and satisfyingly crisp sound that clicky switch enthusiasts will appreciate. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch provides a high-pitched and resonant sound profile that may appeal to those looking for a cleaner and sharper auditory experience. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used, so it's important to consider the overall setup when choosing a switch based on sound preferences.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers an easy-to-press experience with a gentle resistance that requires minimal force for activation. The tactile bump is described as stepped, providing a distinct two-stage feel that enhances typing feedback. In comparison, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is noted for its polished and creamy sensation, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless keystrokes. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Overall, the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in delivering a lightweight and tactile typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound profile, making it a top favorite for clicky switch users. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch stands out for its high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, and polished, creamy feel that enhances typing comfort and smooth key travel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to specific typing preferences, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers exploring mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a lightweight actuation force, a satisfyingly crunchy sound, and a perfectly balanced tactile bump, the Brother clicky switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, and a smoother typing experience with a creamy finish, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch might be more suited to your tastes. Ultimately, your decision should align with your specific typing preferences and desired sound and feel profiles.
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