Durock Dolphin vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, there are key differences to consider. The Durock Dolphin is a silent switch with a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, making it perfect for office environments or those who prefer a switch with more resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana is known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, with two-stage springs for a strong return and consistent feel. While the Dolphin offers a polished, muted, and low-pitched typing experience, the Jupiter Banana provides a polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant feel. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
N/A
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Jupiter Banana both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the difference in their bottom housings sets them apart. The Dolphin utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Jupiter Banana's nylon bottom housing that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone.
In terms of sound profile, the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Jupiter Banana showcase the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience. The combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing in the Dolphin provides a unique blend of sharpness from the top and depth from the bottom, resulting in a well-balanced sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana's consistent use of nylon for both top and bottom housings may result in a more uniform and subdued sound. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing materials can greatly influence the tactile feedback and acoustics of mechanical switches.
While both the Durock Dolphin and the Gateron Jupiter Banana feature polycarbonate top housings that enhance sound clarity and resonance, the difference in their bottom housing materials ultimately shapes their individual sound profiles. The Dolphin's combination of polycarbonate and nylon results in a more dynamic typing experience, with a balance of sharpness and depth. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana's consistent use of nylon may provide a more consistent and subdued sound. Despite their differences, both switches emphasize the importance of housing materials in influencing the overall sound and feel of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, we see that the Dolphin has a lower bottom out force of 62 grams, making it lighter compared to the Jupiter Banana with a bottom out force of 69 grams, which is medium-heavy. However, the actuation force of the Jupiter Banana is 59 grams, slightly lower than the Dolphin's unknown actuation force. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dolphin, while those seeking a more substantial push feel may opt for the Jupiter Banana. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. However, the Dolphin offers a slightly longer travel distance which may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes for some users. In general, if you are looking for a switch with a shorter travel distance for faster reactions, the Jupiter Banana may be the better choice. But if you prefer a bit more depth to your keystrokes, the Dolphin could be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches will provide a reliable and smooth typing experience, with the only difference being the slight variation in their travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
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
The Durock Dolphin linear switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it a great choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound that can provide a more sharp and crisp typing sound. In terms of feel, both switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Jupiter Banana switch is also described as creamy, providing a buttery and silky sensation while typing. Overall, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Durock Dolphin may be the better choice. However, if you enjoy a sharper and crisper sound with a tactile feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana could be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you value a silent and low-pitched typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Dolphin switch would be the better choice for you, especially in office or noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a higher actuation force and a high-pitched, resonant sound profile, the Jupiter Banana switch would be more suitable, offering a smooth and creamy typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize noise level, actuation force, typing feel, or sound profile in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
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