Gateron Glory Red vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches for your typing or gaming experience, the differences between the Gateron Glory Red and the Gateron Jupiter Banana are quite pronounced. The Glory Red switches stand out in the category of linear switches, celebrated for their smooth keystroke and lighter touch, making them perfect for those who prefer unimpeded travel distance and an overall seamless typing experience. This makes them an excellent choice for gamers who require swift and uninterrupted key presses. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches are tactile switches known for their pronounced feedback and uniquely designed high-precision molds, offering users a creamy, resonant feel that enhances tactile satisfaction with each actuation. Their two-stage springs provide a strong return, making them ideal for typists who appreciate feedback without the clicky sound associated with some other switch types. Ultimately, your decision may hinge on whether you prioritize a smooth, linear action or a more tactile and responsive experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Red Linear

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$2.80 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches, a clear distinction arises in the choice of materials used for the top housing. The Glory Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which, as a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic is significant because it absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder when typing. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness. This design creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the keypress sounds. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for those who appreciate RGB lighting effects, as it allows for better light diffusion than nylon.

When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches share a commonality: they both utilize nylon material. The characteristics of nylon come into play in the bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile as well. This shared use of nylon means that, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, the bottom-out sound and feel for both the Glory Red and Jupiter Banana switches will have a similar quality, marked by that characteristic damping effect that nylon provides. Thus, users can expect a satisfying typing experience that is consistent across both switches when it comes to the bottom housing.

Ultimately, the differences in sound profiles between the Glory Red and Jupiter Banana are largely attributed to their contrasting top housing materials, with nylon providing a rounded, softer sound, and polycarbonate delivering a bright, resonant sound. However, the common use of nylon in the bottom housings ensures that both switches maintain a foundationally similar auditory experience when bottoming out. Therefore, while the overall acoustic experience may vary, users can anticipate a uniform depth and roundness in the sound that emanates from the bottom housing, allowing for a dynamic interplay between the two different top housing characteristics during use.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Glory Red boasts an actuation force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option, which can be more comfortable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana requires a heavier actuation force of 59 grams, providing a more substantial push feel that some users may prefer. Additionally, while the bottom out force of the Glory Red is unknown, the Jupiter Banana has a defined bottom out force of 69 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. Therefore, for those seeking a lighter experience with quicker and easier actuation, the Glory Red is a fitting choice, while those who enjoy a weightier tactile experience should gravitate towards the Jupiter Banana. The differences in actuation and bottom out forces ultimately cater to varied typing preferences and user experiences.

Travel distance

The Gateron Glory Red linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Glory Red the longer option, offering a deeper press that some users may find more satisfying and substantial, especially for those who appreciate a more pronounced bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana, with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who prefer a quicker response, which can be advantageous for gaming and fast-paced typing. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preference: if you favor a more responsive feel, the Jupiter Banana would be the way to go, while the Glory Red might be preferred for its greater depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Gateron Glory Red switch is lightweight and unobtrusive, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience without drawing attention in shared spaces. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a high-pitched and resonant acoustic character that produces a sharp, crisp sound when pressed. This sound offers a more pronounced auditory feedback, which can be appealing to typists who enjoy a more immersive and engaging experience. However, it’s crucial to note that the overall sound can vary depending on the keyboard's build and the keycap materials used.

When examining the feel of the two switches, the Glory Red is praised for its smooth keystroke, ensuring a pleasant travel distance without any noticeable bumps along the way. This linear switch excels in providing a fluid typing experience, ideal for both gaming and typing. The Jupiter Banana, on the other hand, boasts a polished and creamy feel that results in a more refined, nearly buttery typing experience. The incorporation of two-stage springs enhances its tactile feedback, making every keystroke feel consistent and responsive. This makes the Jupiter Banana a great option for those seeking tactile feedback while maintaining a smooth typing motion.

In summary, while the Gateron Glory Red offers a straightforward and quiet linear typing experience, the Gateron Jupiter Banana enhances the experience with its tactile feedback and resonant sound. If you prefer a silent setup for focused work, the Glory Red is likely your best bet, while the Jupiter Banana is aimed at users looking to enjoy a tactile sensation combined with a more engaging sound signature. The choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize silence or a more dynamic typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a smooth and lightweight keystroke experience, the Glory Red is likely your best bet, especially if you enjoy long typing sessions or gaming where rapid key presses are crucial. Its designed lightness allows for easy actuation without much force, making it great for those who favor speed and a satisfying, fluid motion. On the other hand, if you prefer tactile feedback with a medium-heavy actuation force, the Jupiter Banana switch would suit you well. The tactile bump provides a point of reference during typing, which can enhance your overall typing accuracy and satisfaction, especially for those who enjoy the feel of a more pronounced response. Additionally, the Jupiter Banana's polished and creamy feel, along with its resonant sound profile, offers a more immersive typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. Ultimately, your choice should align with the typing style you enjoy and the experience you seek from your mechanical keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Red Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more