TTC Gold Brown vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Jupiter Banana mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown switch is praised for its balanced nature, providing a slight but satisfying bump with a moderate weightiness. It also offers a softer sound profile compared to other switches, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, thanks to two-stage springs that ensure a strong return and consistent feel. While the Gold Brown switch is characterized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', 'Accented', and 'Polished', the Jupiter Banana switch is described as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant'. 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
55g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting. However, the Gold Brown's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Jupiter Banana's nylon bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housings, the differences arise in the nylon bottom housings. The Gold Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a unique typing experience with a fuller sound profile, while the Jupiter Banana's nylon bottom housing provides a slightly different feel with a rounder sound. The split between the bottom and top housings of a switch allows for a combination of qualities to be felt when typing on the switch. The impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Brown and the Gateron Jupiter Banana offer distinct characteristics in their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housings provide a sharper sound profile and are ideal for RGB lighting, while the nylon bottom housings offer unique typing experiences with deeper and fuller sound profiles. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Gold Brown or a rounder sound with the Jupiter Banana, both switches deliver quality performance reflecting the differences in their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, we can see that the Gold Brown has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Jupiter Banana's 59 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Brown requires 63 grams, whereas the Jupiter Banana needs 69 grams, making it the heavier option. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing users with a tactile typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Gold Brown for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial keystroke may opt for the Jupiter Banana. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Gold Brown offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Jupiter Banana. The Gold Brown may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana's shorter travel distance may appeal to individuals looking for a faster response time, commonly favored by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 switch offers a more neutral and balanced sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch produces a high-pitched and resonant sound, creating a sharp and immersive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, users may lean towards the softer and more rounded sound of the Gold Brown or the sharper sound of the Jupiter Banana.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a polished sensation, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Gold Brown switch is described as mild, buttery, accented, and polished, offering a balanced and approachable tactility. In comparison, the Jupiter Banana switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a silky sensation. Users who prefer a more gentle and medium tactile feel may lean towards the Gold Brown, while those seeking a creamy and effortless typing sensation may prefer the Jupiter Banana.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Brown switch provides a balanced and satisfying bump with a softer and more neutral sound profile, while the Jupiter Banana switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound with a creamy and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, you should consider the weight of the switch and the sound and feel preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a balanced, rounded sound profile with a moderate tactile bump, then the Gold Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, and a smooth, creamy typing experience, then the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch may be more suitable for your preferences. It all comes down to personal preference and what feels best for your typing style and needs.
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