TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switches showcases the unique characteristics that each switch offers. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is ideal for those who appreciate a subtle and nuanced tactile feedback, allowing for a focused typing experience with its low-pitched and silky keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, offering a creamy and resonant typing experience. While the Gold Brown Pro is known for its understated tactile experience, the Jupiter Banana excels in providing a strong return and consistent 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gold Brown Pro and the Gateron Jupiter Banana are quite similar as both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, while the Gold Brown Pro utilizes nylon for the bottom housing, the Gateron Jupiter Banana also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housing differs. When typing on the Gold Brown Pro, the impact of the bottom housing can be felt more during bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Similarly, this distribution of qualities is present in the Gateron Jupiter Banana as well, ensuring a balance between the two housing materials for an overall optimal typing experience. Therefore, despite the slight variation in the housing materials used, users of both switches can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound profile and overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Banana is heavier in both aspects. The Gold Brown Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Jupiter Banana requires 59 grams to actuate. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Gold Brown Pro is unknown, while the Jupiter Banana has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 69 grams. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Gold Brown Pro may be the better option. Those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Jupiter Banana for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Brown Pro. The 0.4 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable difference in the feel and response of the switch. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana for quicker response times, while others may find the longer travel distance of the Gold Brown Pro to have a more satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific use-case scenario.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro switch offers a thocky and low-pitched experience, delivering a deep and satisfying sound that is not overpowering. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a more mellow and neutral sound profile while typing. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch produces a high-pitched and resonant sound, creating a sharp and immersive auditory experience for users who enjoy a more crisp and clean sound profile. Selecting the right keycaps and keyboard housing can further enhance or diminish these sound characteristics for both switches.
In terms of feel, both the Gold Brown Pro and Jupiter Banana switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Gold Brown Pro switch is additionally described as silky, mild, subtle, and stepped, providing a gentle resistance, light typing feel, and a two-stage tactile feedback for a nuanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana switch is described as creamy, delivering a buttery and silky typing sensation that effortlessly glides across the keys. While the Jupiter Banana switch may offer a slightly softer typing experience due to lubrication, both switches provide a polished and smooth feel that caters to users seeking a refined tactile experience.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch appeals to users looking for a subtle and understated tactile feedback with a gentle sound profile, allowing for immersive typing without distractions. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a more high-precision tactile experience with a softer backlight effect and a creamy typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience, users can choose between these switches to achieve similar results in different ways.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, you should consider the type of tactile feedback you prefer. If you prefer a subtle and understated tactile experience with a quiet sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a strong tactile bump with a crisper sound profile and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Banana might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactile feel and sound characteristics.
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