KTT Darling vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and Gateron Jupiter Banana stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The KTT Darling is a linear switch that offers a typing sensation described as chewy and substantial, with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to keystrokes. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, enhanced with two-stage springs for a strong return and consistent feel. While the Darling provides a blend of tactile and auditory feedback with its high-pitched resonant sound, the Jupiter Banana offers a polished and creamy typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Darling and Gateron Jupiter Banana use polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting. This material brings a modern and aesthetically pleasing look to both the Darling and the Jupiter Banana switches.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both the KTT Darling and Gateron Jupiter Banana provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This particular housing material contributes to the overall typing experience and can greatly impact the feel and sound when bottoming out a key. Both switches benefit from the classic and timeless qualities of nylon in their bottom housings.
While the top and bottom housings of the KTT Darling and Gateron Jupiter Banana differ in material, the characteristics of each material complement each other to create a harmonious typing experience. The bottom housing, made of nylon, influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing, constructed of polycarbonate, impacts the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound profile and typing experience due to the unique qualities of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it is evident that the Darling is lighter in both aspects. The Darling has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams. The Darling switch falls into the medium-light category, making it easier to trigger keystrokes and less strenuous on the fingers during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana is medium-heavy, requiring a firmer push for keystrokes and providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, individuals may prefer the Darling for its lighter touch, allowing for extended typing comfort, while others may opt for the Jupiter Banana for a more pronounced and tactile typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Darling linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for those seeking quicker response times, especially in gaming scenarios. The Darling switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more tactile feel compared to the Jupiter Banana switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of how much depth and feedback you prefer in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 KTT Darling linear switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant qualities, creating a clacky and engaging typing experience. The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch shares a similar high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory feedback when typing. Both switches offer a distinct sound that can be enjoyable for users looking for a more immersive typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as keyboard design and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the KTT Darling linear switch is praised for its bouncy tactile feedback, giving users a spring-like sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Both switches provide unique tactile feedback that can cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a bouncy and lively feel or a smooth and buttery sensation while typing.
Overall, both the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel that can enhance your typing experience. If you enjoy a high-pitched and resonant sound profile with a bouncy tactile feedback, the Darling switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a polished and creamy typing experience with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Banana switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, typing sensation, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a bouncy feel, the KTT Darling might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and value high-precision molds with softer backlight effects, along with a polished and creamy feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana could be the switch that suits your needs best. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the typing experience you desire.
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