Dareu Holly vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Jupiter Banana both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Holly switch stands out for its medium 50g actuation force and distinctive sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana is known for its high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, and two-stage springs for a strong return and consistent feel. While the Holly is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Neutral', the Jupiter Banana falls into categories such 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

Dareu Holly Tactile

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

$2.80 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the overall design. With the top housing being the same material in both switches, users can expect similar sound qualities and visual effects when using either the Holly or the Jupiter Banana.

On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Dareu Holly features nylon, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana also uses nylon for its bottom housing. This material choice creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The result is a duller and rounder sound that provides a different typing experience compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Despite the differences between the top and bottom housing materials, users can still expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel with both the Holly and the Jupiter Banana.

When considering how the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switches, it becomes evident that the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed down. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities allows for a balanced typing experience that combines the sharpness of polycarbonate with the depth of nylon, ensuring that users can enjoy a variety of tactile and auditory sensations when using either the Dareu Holly or the Gateron Jupiter Banana.

Weight

The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 59 grams, making the Holly lighter in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Holly's weight is unknown, while the Jupiter Banana has a bottom out force of 69 grams, which is considered to be medium-heavy. Choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preference, with the Holly being more suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without strain. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana switch would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision will come down to individual preferences in terms of typing experience and pressure sensitivity.

Travel distance

The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 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 Holly. The Holly's 4 mm travel distance is on the longer side and provides a deeper keystroke feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana's 3.4 mm travel distance is considered to be on the shorter side, making it a choice for those who prefer quicker response times and a more responsive feel. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance for your typing needs.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Dareu Holly switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, giving users a distinct and balanced typing experience. This sound profile sets it apart from traditional switches, providing a refreshing auditory sensation during use. In comparison, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch produces a high-pitched and resonant sound, offering a different sensory experience for users. While the Holly switch introduces chirpy and clacky elements, the Jupiter Banana switch focuses on a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing experience.

In terms of feel, specific descriptors for the Dareu Holly switch are not available. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is described as polished and creamy, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. The polished finish of the Jupiter Banana switch reduces friction and enhances key travel, resulting in a sleek and comfortable typing feel. Additionally, the creamy sensation of these switches offers a buttery and effortless keystroke experience, further enhancing the overall typing feel. While the specific feel of the Holly switch remains unknown, the polished and creamy qualities of the Jupiter Banana switch indicate a high level of comfort and smoothness during typing.

Overall, the Dareu Holly and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities for users to consider. The Holly switch stands out with its chirpy and clacky sound profile, providing a balanced and unique typing experience. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana switch delivers a high-pitched and resonant sound, accompanied by a polished and creamy typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Additionally, both switches may offer similar results in terms of performance, with variations in sound and feel to cater to different typing preferences.

Conclusion

In summary, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Holly tactile switch or the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you are seeking a balanced and distinctive sound signature with a combination of chirpy and clacky elements, the Dareu Holly switch with its medium 50g actuation force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a high-precision mold, softer backlight effects, and a strong return with consistent feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch with its 69-gram bottom out force and two-stage springs might be more suited to your typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it is important to consider your personal preferences and typing needs when making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Holly and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches depends on what you value most in your mechanical keyboard typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Holly Tactile

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more