HC Studio Crabapple vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, there are key differences to consider. The Crabapple boasts a unique typing experience with its frictionless POM construction and subtle texture, resulting in a mild and understated sound signature. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana offers a tactile feel and high-precision molds, coupled with softer backlight effects and a strong return due to its two-stage springs. While the Crabapple is praised for its smoothness and texture, the Jupiter Banana stands out for its tactile feedback and consistent 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
37g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HC Studio Crabapple and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, one major difference is in the top housing. The Crabapple features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana has a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in sound profile is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate compared to POM. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize their keyboard aesthetics.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Crabapple continues to utilize POM, resulting in a consistent deeper and muted sound profile throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana opts for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a fuller and rounder sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This difference in bottom housing material will contribute to the overall typing experience, impacting the sound and feel of bottoming out a key.
Although the housing materials of the Crabapple and Jupiter Banana differ in both the top and bottom components, the impact on typing experience is similar. The qualities of the bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will impact the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, providing users with options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences. Whether you prefer a deeper, more muted sound like the Crabapple or a sharper, crisper sound like the Jupiter Banana, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in creating a distinctive typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it is evident that the Crabapple is lighter in both categories. The Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, presenting a medium-heavy feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Crabapple, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may find the Jupiter Banana more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HC Studio Crabapple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Crabapple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jupiter Banana. This means that the Crabapple switch will require a bit more force to press down fully compared to the Jupiter Banana. Gamers who prefer faster response times may opt for the Jupiter Banana with its slightly shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Crabapple. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HC Studio Crabapple has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crabapple for $4.70.
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 HC Studio Crabapple linear switch offers a subdued and mild sound profile, producing a dampened and subtle sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound experience when typing. The choice between these two switches will largely depend on your personal preference for sound, as well as other factors like your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Crabapple linear switch is known for its frictionless and mild characteristics, offering an effortless and gentle typing experience with a subtle texture felt during each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is described as polished and creamy, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a buttery sensation. Both switches aim to offer a pleasant typing experience, but the specific feel will vary depending on whether you prefer a more frictionless or polished typing experience.
In conclusion, the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crabapple switch provides a softer and more subdued sound with a frictionless typing experience, the Jupiter Banana switch offers a sharper sound profile and a polished, creamy feel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and typing feel, as well as the overall aesthetic and functionality of your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you are looking for a light and frictionless typing experience with a subtle sound profile, then the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a tactile feel and a high-pitched sound profile, then the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch would better suit your needs. Consider your preferred typing experience and sound preference when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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