Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Jupiter Banana offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Red is a linear switch designed for a smooth typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, perfect for those who prioritize responsiveness and ease of use. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a strong return and consistent feel for a satisfying typing experience. While the G Pro Red offers vibrant RGB lighting effects and a medium-high pitch, the Jupiter Banana features a polished and high-pitched tactile feel. 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
50g
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
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
One key difference between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Gateron Jupiter Banana is their top housing material. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. This means that both switches will offer a visually appealing experience with vibrant lighting effects.
Another point of comparison lies in the bottom housing of these switches. Both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Jupiter Banana feature a nylon bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a more muted and satisfying sound compared to switches with harder bottom housings.
While both switches share similar housing materials, the distribution of these materials can impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of the top housing material, such as the sharper sound profile, will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing material will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. This means that users may notice subtle differences in sound and feel between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Jupiter Banana, despite their shared housing materials. Ultimately, both switches offer a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings that contribute to an overall enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it's evident that the G Pro 3.0 Red is the lighter of the two switches. With an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, it offers a light and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana has a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch that provides a more substantial typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Red for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals who enjoy a more robust keystroke may opt for the Jupiter Banana for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Red has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Jupiter Banana's 3.4 mm. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a slightly deeper key press experience than the Jupiter Banana. The longer travel distance may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press feel, while the shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may be appealing to those looking for quicker response times, especially gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of typing situations whether you are a beginner or advanced user. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch provides a high-pitched and resonant sound, creating a sharp and immersive auditory experience. Your choice of keyboard, board, and keycaps will also influence the overall sound produced by these switches.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch offers a creamy and mild typing experience, providing smooth and buttery key presses with a polished finish for reduced friction. The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch also provides a polished and creamy typing experience, giving a silky sensation as your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys. Both switches ensure a refined and smooth typing experience due to factory lubing and specific materials used in their construction.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer different but equally satisfying typing experiences. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile with a creamy typing feel or a high-pitched sound with a silky sensation, both switches deliver quality performance. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can expect similar results in terms of smooth key travel and overall typing satisfaction with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch with a smooth typing experience, medium-light actuation force, and bright RGB lighting effects, then the G Pro 3.0 Red is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer tactile switches with high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, and a strong return with consistent feel, then the Jupiter Banana would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize a linear switch with a medium-light actuation force or a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force. Choose wisely based on your typing style and preferences.
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