Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Jupiter Banana stand out as popular options for different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch known for its incredibly light actuation force of 38g, perfect for delicate typists seeking effortless and sensitive keystrokes. It features a frosted light diffuser for brighter RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects. With two-stage springs for a strong return and consistent feel, this switch offers a polished and creamy typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 White is easy-to-press and feathery, the Jupiter Banana provides a more resonant and higher-pitched typing sensation. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, making it essential to delve deeper to find the best fit for your specific 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
38g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 stiffer plastic that allows for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the switch. While both switches share this feature, the unique design and branding of each model may offer slight variations in appearance.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Jupiter Banana utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing of these switches indicates a focus on providing a satisfying typing experience with a more muted sound profile compared to switches with harder bottom housings.
It is important to note that the qualities of each housing material in these switches will impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing will have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. Despite this distinction, the overall typing experience on both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Jupiter Banana is likely to be similar due to their shared used of polycarbonate and nylon in key housing components.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it becomes evident that the G Pro 3.0 White is lighter in both aspects. The G Pro 3.0 White has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana has a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Those who favor a stronger push for their keystrokes would find the Jupiter Banana switch more suitable. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their weight, with the G Pro 3.0 White being lighter and the Gateron Jupiter Banana being heavier, catering to different preferences in typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The G Pro 3.0 White offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana's shorter travel distance appeals to gamers seeking quicker response times. While both switches offer a smooth keystroke, the G Pro 3.0 White provides a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, providing a moderate sound experience suitable for a variety of environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound, giving a sharper and more immersive auditory feedback. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, the sound produced by each switch can vary.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is known for offering an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience. With a light actuation force, this switch aims to reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is described as having a polished and creamy feel, with a smoother and refined typing experience. The use of two-stage springs in the Jupiter Banana ensures a strong return and consistent feel, enhancing the overall typing sensation.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 White provides a moderate sound profile and a light typing feel, the Jupiter Banana gives a sharper sound and a smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience, ensuring that both options cater to different needs and preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you are looking for a light and effortless typing feel with a subtle sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 White with its creamy and easy-to-press characteristics may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a strong return and high-pitched sound profile, the Jupiter Banana with its polished and creamy feel might suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing experience you are aiming for, whether it be smooth and light or tactile and pronounced.
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