Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Jupiter Banana. The G Pro 3.0 Black is a linear switch that offers a heavy typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. This switch is favored by those who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing and appreciate a medium-high pitch auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects. Equipped with two-stage springs, these switches provide a strong return and consistent feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Jupiter Banana differ in their housing materials, with the G Pro 3.0 Black featuring a proprietary INK blend top housing and a POM bottom housing, while the Jupiter Banana has a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The INK blend top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black is known for its pointed and higher-pitched sound profile, creating a satisfying clacky sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Banana produces a sharper, crisper sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black delivers a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Banana offers a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Jupiter Banana provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The INK blend top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black may appeal to those who enjoy a clacky sound with a higher pitch, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Banana is suitable for users looking for a sharper and crisper sound experience. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black creates a pleasing deep sound, contrasting with the fuller sound produced by the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Banana. Overall, these housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch, offering users a variety of options to suit their preferences.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, it is important to note that each material brings distinct qualities to the overall sound profile of the switch. The top housing primarily influences the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. This means that the choice of housing material in each component can significantly affect the overall typing experience, with the characteristics of the materials blending to create a unique sound profile for each switch. Whether you prefer the clacky sound of the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing or the crisp sound of the Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing, both switches offer a distinct typing experience influenced by their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch both fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a slightly higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Jupiter Banana's 59 grams, but both switches require 70 and 69 grams, respectively, to bottom out. This means that while the G Pro 3.0 Black may feel slightly heavier to initially press down, both switches will provide a similar typing experience once fully pressed. Some users may prefer the slightly lighter actuation force of the Jupiter Banana for longer typing sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier feel of the G Pro 3.0 Black for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch with 4mm and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch with 3.4mm, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a longer travel distance than the Jupiter Banana. The G Pro 3.0 Black's 4mm travel distance offers a more traditional key press feel, while the Jupiter Banana's 3.4mm travel distance is slightly shorter and may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana for faster key presses. Both switches offer their own advantages, with the G Pro 3.0 Black providing a deeper key press experience and the Jupiter Banana offering a more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is characterized by a high-pitched and resonant sound, offering a cleaner and sharper auditory experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Black has a more subdued sound signature, the Jupiter Banana provides a more vibrant and immersive sound profile. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is described as creamy and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a balanced medium-heavy feel. The Jupiter Banana tactile switch, on the other hand, is known for its polished and creamy feel, providing a sleek and refined typing experience with a strong return and consistent feel. Both switches offer a smooth and effortless typing sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing feel, the Jupiter Banana offers a high-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy typing experience. Both switches deliver premium quality and a satisfying typing experience, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, users can expect a similar level of quality and performance from both switches, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a medium-heavy feel with a balanced actuation and bottom-out force, along with a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, and a strong return feel, the Jupiter Banana could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing sound and feel you desire in your mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely to enhance your typing experience to its fullest potential.
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