Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana offer two contrasting yet appealing options for tactile feedback enthusiasts. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its invigorating tactile bump and a loud, bass-heavy sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who thrive on pronounced feedback and enjoy an engaging typing experience. Conversely, the Gateron Jupiter Banana stands out with its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, catering to users who appreciate a smoother tactile feel and a less intrusive auditory experience—enhanced by the switch's two-stage springs that deliver a strong and consistent return. Both switches bear polished finishes and are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience, yet their distinctive characteristics position them uniquely within the tactile switch landscape. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro Tactile

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$3.11

$2.10 per 10

$2.80 per 10

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Housing materials

The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana feature identical materials for their top and bottom housings, both of which are made from polycarbonate and nylon, respectively. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This material is known for its rigidity, which amplifies the clarity and pitch of the sounds produced during keypresses. Additionally, both switches boast clear housings, enhancing their aesthetic appeal under RGB lighting conditions. Such similarities in construction mean that users can expect comparable auditory experiences when utilizing either switch, particularly regarding the high-pitched notes that enhance the overall typing experience.

In contrast, while the top housings contribute to similar sound characteristics, the nylon bottom housing of both switches creates a deeper and fuller audio profile, resulting in a unique blend of sound components. Nylon’s softer plastic nature helps to absorb sound waves, leading to a more muted and rounded acoustic signature when typing. This design choice means that while both switches will produce clear and sharp sounds on activation, the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced heavily by the nylon materials. Users will find that the sound upon key release is sharply defined, while the sound upon bottoming out is deeper and more plush, regardless of whether they choose the V3 Creamy Purple Pro or the Jupiter Banana.

Given the congruency in material usage, owners of either switch can anticipate similar results in typing sound profiles, albeit with unique textures based on individual characteristics. In essence, users can expect a cohesive auditory and tactile experience; the sharp, resonant tones of the polycarbonate combine with the richer, fuller results of nylon to create a well-rounded typing environment. Therefore, the choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana would ultimately come down to personal preference in feel and aesthetics rather than significant differences in acoustic quality.

Weight

When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces reflect distinct typing experiences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it well-suited for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons, as it requires less effort to actuate. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana has a significantly heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, providing a firmer feedback that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. This means that while the V3 Creamy Purple Pro delivers a lighter touch, making it ideal for users seeking comfort over long durations, the Jupiter Banana appeals to those who enjoy a stronger key press. Thus, if you prioritize a lighter and more effortless typing experience, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the better choice, whereas the Gateron Jupiter Banana may be preferred for its heavier, more deliberate actuation.

Travel distance

The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch exhibit different travel distances, with the V3 Creamy Purple Pro featuring a shorter travel distance of 3 mm compared to the Jupiter Banana's 3.4 mm. This means that users favoring quicker response times, such as gamers, might gravitate toward the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for its more responsive feel. Conversely, the longer travel distance of the Jupiter Banana could appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, as it offers a greater depth that some users find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to personal preference—the former provides a snappier interaction, while the latter allows for a more pronounced key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is characterized by its loud, bassier tone, offering an invigorating auditory experience that commands attention in any typing environment. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches provide a high-pitched and resonant sound signature, delivering a sharp and crisp auditory feedback that is pleasing for those who prefer cleaner tones. While both switches produce distinct sound qualities, the Creamy Purple Pro's deeper bass versus the Jupiter Banana's higher pitch means that they cater to different sound preferences, offering unique experiences depending on users' auditory sensitivities.

When it comes to feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro excels with its large tactile bump that provides pronounced feedback, described as invigorating and moderately firm. This creates a lively and engaging typing sensation, appealing to users who enjoy a tactile response with a degree of resistance during actuation. Conversely, the Jupiter Banana switch offers a creamy and polished feel, characterized by its smooth, buttery typing experience, akin to gliding across the keys. Both switches feature a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel; however, the Jupiter Banana's unique creamy texture contrasts with the more pronounced tactile feedback of the Creamy Purple Pro, making them suitable for users with different preferences regarding actuation feel.

In summary, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switches present a fascinating dichotomy in sound and feel. While the Creamy Purple Pro is loud and bass-heavy with a significant tactile bump, making it ideal for those who appreciate a robust typing experience, the Jupiter Banana offers a high-pitched, sharp sound and a smooth, creamy touch, catering to users who prefer a more refined and subtle typing sensation. Choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feedback, as each switch provides a unique experience that can greatly influence typing enjoyment and satisfaction.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for feel, actuation force, sound, and typing experience. If you appreciate a lighter switch with a notable tactile bump and a richer, bassier sound profile, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro will likely enhance your typing and gaming experience. Its polished feel and invigorating response are perfect for those who enjoy a lively and snappy typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Gateron Jupiter Banana will cater to your preferences. Its high-pitched sound and polished yet creamy feel provide a polished typing experience that yields a different auditory character, ideal for those who seek a sharper and more resonant feedback while typing. Your decision should reflect what you cherish most in your keyboard experience—whether it’s the uplifting bounce and rich sound of the Creamy Purple Pro or the refined, precise feedback of the Jupiter Banana.

Mentioned in this article

Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro Tactile

$3.11

$2.10 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more