Outemu Crystal vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana

Overview

When comparing the Outemu Crystal, a linear switch, to the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, several key differences emerge. The Crystal offers a unique, linear typing experience with a fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, and two-stage springs that provide a strong return and consistent feel. While the Crystal may appeal to those seeking a smooth and linear typing experience, the Jupiter Banana may be preferred by those looking for a tactile and responsive switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Crystal Linear

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$3.40 per 10

$2.80 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Crystal features polycarbonate, while the Jupiter Banana opts for nylon. This leads to a difference in sound profiles, with the Crystal producing a clearer and resonant sound compared to the deeper and fuller sound elicited by the Jupiter Banana.

The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Crystal provides a consistent sound profile throughout the typing experience. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound both when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing results in a split in sound qualities between the two parts of the switch. Typing on the Jupiter Banana will offer a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on a key, thanks to the nylon bottom housing's ability to absorb more sound.

Overall, while the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Jupiter Banana use polycarbonate for their top housing, the choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profiles. The Crystal's consistent use of polycarbonate results in a sharper and more resonant sound profile, while the Jupiter Banana's mix of polycarbonate and nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of the Crystal or the fuller sound of the Jupiter Banana will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound aesthetics.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it is evident that the Crystal is lighter in both aspects. The Crystal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. For those who prefer a lighter feel and less strain on their fingers during extended typing or gaming sessions, the Outemu Crystal would be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Gateron Jupiter Banana. Both switches offer unique typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.

Travel distance

The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch have different travel distances, with the Crystal having a travel distance of 4 mm and the Jupiter Banana having a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Crystal has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance, making it more suitable for those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer their own advantages depending on personal preference. If you prefer a deeper key press, the Outemu Crystal would be the better choice, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana would be more suitable for those looking for a quicker response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch has a unique chirpy and high-pitched profile, setting it apart from other switches with a more neutral sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch also produces a high-pitched sound but adds a resonant quality that provides a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, making them suitable for users looking for specific acoustics in their typing experience.

In terms of feel, both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is further characterized as creamy, offering a buttery sensation that allows for effortless keystrokes. These switches prioritize comfort and smoothness in typing, making them ideal choices for users who value a luxurious feel in their mechanical keyboard.

Overall, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal provides a chirpy sound and a medium-light weight linear feel, the Jupiter Banana offers high-precision molds and a two-stage spring system for a strong return and consistent feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding sound profile, typing experience, and desired tactile feedback. Regardless of the choice, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, you should consider a few factors. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile with a slightly elastic feel, the Crystal switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, and enhanced two-stage springs for a strong return and consistent feel, the Jupiter Banana switch would be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy switches with a high-pitched sound profile and a polished, smooth typing experience, both switches offer these qualities. Ultimately, the decision between the Crystal and Jupiter Banana switches comes down to personal preference in terms of force, feel, sound, and overall typing experience. Consider these factors carefully to choose the switch that best fits your preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Linear

$3.40 per 10

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Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more