Dareu Dream vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Jupiter Banana offer distinct features catering to different preferences. The Dareu Dream, a linear switch, is well-known for its lightness and affordability, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for a quality switch at a lower price point. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, stands out for its high-precision molds and two-stage springs that provide a strong return and consistent feel. While the Dream is easy to press and clacky, the Jupiter Banana offers a polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant 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

Dareu Dream Linear

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

$2.80 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Jupiter Banana feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as the light can shine through the clear housing. This similarity in top housing material means that users can expect a similar sound and typing experience from both switches.

On the other hand, the Dream and the Jupiter Banana differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Dream utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. This consistency in bottom housing material means that users can expect a comparable typing experience when it comes to the sound produced by both switches.

When considering how the different housing materials impact the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities of each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction means that even if the top and bottom housings are different, users can still expect a cohesive typing experience with a blend of sharper, higher-pitched sound from the polycarbonate top housing and a deeper, fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing in both the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Jupiter Banana.

Weight

The Dareu Dream linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, with 40 grams versus 59 grams, respectively. The bottom out force for the Dream is unknown, while the Jupiter Banana has a bottom out force of 69 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dareu Dream, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a heavier actuation and bottom out force. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to a variety of preferences.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it is clear that the Dream has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Jupiter Banana's 3.4 mm. The Dream's 4.0mm distance falls on the more traditional side, offering a deeper feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana's 3.4mm distance is slightly shorter, making it a favorable choice for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their keystrokes. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Jupiter Banana for its quicker feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as some may find the shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana to be too abrupt, while others may appreciate its swift actuation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Dareu Dream linear switch is often described as clacky, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is noted for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, offering a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Dream being more crisp and bright, while the Jupiter Banana delivers a richer and more immersive sound.

Moving on to feel, the Dareu Dream switch is praised for its easy-to-press and mild characteristics, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal force required to activate the keys. This results in reduced finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, providing a comfortable and responsive typing feel. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is known for its polished and creamy feel, featuring a smooth and refined finish that allows for effortless key travel and reduced friction. The creamy sensation of the Jupiter Banana switch provides a silky experience that enhances the typing comfort for users.

In conclusion, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dream switch provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Jupiter Banana switch boasts a high-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Whether you prefer a lighter linear switch or a tactile switch with enhanced spring dynamics, both options offer quality and performance that can elevate your mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing needs. If you are looking for a light linear switch at an affordable price point, the Dareu Dream may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and high-precision molds for a consistent feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors such as sound profile, feel, and typing experience, so choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Dream Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more