Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana. The V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch that offers a unique typing experience with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, offering a consistent and strong return thanks to its two-stage springs. While the Crystal Pro is characterized as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', the Jupiter Banana is described as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that make them appealing choices for different preferences. 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
48g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate's translucency is ideal for incorporating RGB lighting into the switches. However, the Gateron Jupiter Banana sets itself apart with a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing.
In terms of sound profile, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, providing a sharp and clear sound profile. However, the Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains this same characteristic, while the Jupiter Banana's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the Crystal Pro's bottom housing may result in a more defined bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the softer nylon material in the Jupiter Banana provides a duller and rounder sound upon key press.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. Both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate in their top housings, creating a sharp and resonant sound profile ideal for RGB lighting. However, the Crystal Pro maintains this sharpness with its polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Jupiter Banana offers a deeper and fuller sound experience with its nylon bottom housing. Depending on whether you prefer a clearer, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, either switch could be the perfect fit for your typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, we can see a difference in weight when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Crystal Pro has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Jupiter Banana's 59 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes on the Akko switch. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the V3 Crystal Pro requires more force at 60 grams compared to the Jupiter Banana's 69 grams, making the Gateron switch heavier in this aspect. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, catering to different preferences depending on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance compared to the V3 Crystal Pro. The difference may not be significant, but for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Jupiter Banana may be the preferred choice. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro for a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy and unique acoustic signature, setting it apart from other switches on the market. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch produces a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, which can provide an immersive auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct auditory qualities, so the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall typing setup.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch provides a bouncy and polished typing experience, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch also offers a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Jupiter Banana switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience due to lubricant applied at the factory. Both switches provide a refined and sleek typing experience, making them ideal choices for those looking for a premium feel during typing sessions.
Taking all the available information into account, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal Pro switch is known for its chirpy sound and bouncy feel, the Jupiter Banana switch stands out with its high-pitched sound and creamy feel. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound and typing experience. Both switches provide a premium typing experience and are sure to satisfy newcomers looking to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch or the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing feel, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, along with a higher bottom out force for a stronger return and consistent feel, the Jupiter Banana could be the better option. Consider your desired sound profile and typing sensation to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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