Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver 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 Silver and the Gateron Jupiter Banana offer unique features worth considering. The G Pro 3.0 Silver is a linear switch that is perfect for gamers seeking lightning-fast responsiveness and a competitive edge with its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. Its vibrant RGB lighting and medium-high pitch add an exciting element to gaming sessions. 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 with two-stage springs. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers value and speed, the Jupiter Banana focuses on precision and tactile feedback. 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate material for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is ideal for those who enjoy a crisper typing experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The G Pro 3.0 Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar typing experience with a focus on creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches sharing similar top and bottom housing materials, the distribution of these materials within the switches results in varied typing experiences. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, impacting how the keystroke ends. In this case, users of the G Pro 3.0 Silver can expect a more impactful and resonant bottom-out experience due to the nylon bottom housing. Conversely, the top housing of a switch influences the sound when a key is released, adding a different dimension to the overall typing experience. As such, the polycarbonate top housing of both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Jupiter Banana enhances the sound profile upon key release, providing a consistent and satisfying typing sound.
Ultimately, the housing materials used in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Gateron Jupiter Banana contribute to their unique sound profiles and typing experiences. Both switches benefit from the sharp and crisp sound produced by their polycarbonate top housing, creating an engaging typing experience for users. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in both switches adds a deeper and fuller sound element, emphasizing the tactile feedback during key presses. While the differences in the bottom housing may result in minor variations in sound and feel, the overall typing experience offered by these switches remains consistent and satisfying for users seeking a high-quality mechanical keyboard option.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Silver is lighter in both aspects. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana has a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 69 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique advantages based on the preferences of the user. For those seeking a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the better choice. Meanwhile, individuals looking for a more tactile and heavier typing experience may find the Gateron Jupiter Banana more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This ensures that you will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and feedback. As a result, there is no difference in the travel distance between these two switches, making them equally suitable for typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 Silver linear switch is described as bassy, low-pitched, and thocky, offering a deep and rich auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is characterized as high-pitched and resonant, providing a sharp and clean sound profile. Depending on personal preferences, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch might be more appealing for those who enjoy a deeper and more bass-heavy sound, while the Jupiter Banana switch could be preferred by individuals who prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch are described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is also described as buttery, signifying a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation, while the Jupiter Banana switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. These qualities indicate that both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with a focus on smoothness and uniformity in key presses.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch provides a deeper and richer sound profile with a buttery typing experience, the Jupiter Banana switch offers a sharper sound profile with a polished finish for smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, and both options are sure to deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch or the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize lightning-fast responsiveness and a competitive advantage in gaming, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch with its lighter bottom out force and enhanced RGB lighting may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a stronger return and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Banana switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force and high-precision molds could be more suitable. The decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize gaming performance or typing comfort.
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