TTC Ice vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference, and two popular options are the TTC Ice and the Gateron Jupiter Banana. The TTC Ice, a linear switch known for its crystal-clear transparent design, offers a smooth and responsive typing experience with a satisfying bottom-out sound, making it an ideal choice for gamers and everyday typists alike who prioritize swift keystrokes without tactile resistance. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana, classified as a tactile switch, provides a distinct feel with its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects. Enhanced with two-stage springs, this switch ensures a strong return and consistent feedback, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response while typing. Both switches have their unique advantages, catering to different typing styles and preferences. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

TTC Ice Linear

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

$2.80 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Ice and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, it's evident that both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This commonality contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches, as the stiffness of polycarbonate ensures a clear and resonant sound. This is particularly advantageous for users who favor RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better light diffusion, enhancing the overall aesthetic experience. Therefore, in terms of their top housing, both switches create similar auditory and visual effects, appealing to those who appreciate a vibrant and dynamic typing experience enhanced by RGB illumination.

In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the two switches present a notable difference. The TTC Ice employs polycarbonate in its bottom housing, which would typically produce a sound profile characterized by clarity and resonance. In comparison, the Gateron Jupiter Banana uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer composition, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This divergence in materials means that the Ice's bottom-out sound will be crisper, while the Banana's will be rounder and more muted. Consequently, the difference in bottom housing material significantly affects how each switch feels and sounds when pressed down, creating a unique typing experience for each switch.

When considering how these different housing materials influence overall performance, it's crucial to recognize that the different properties of the housings will result in a split dynamic. The TTC Ice, with polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings, will maintain a consistent clarity throughout the typing experience, whereas the Gateron Jupiter Banana’s combination of nylon in the bottom housing and polycarbonate in the top creates a more complex sound profile. Users will appreciate the nuances offered by both designs; the Ice for its uniform sharpness and the Banana for a balanced blend of crisp and deep tones. Ultimately, these contrasting materials provide typists with a choice tailored to their auditory preferences and desired tactile sensations.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, notable differences arise in their actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Ice has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a less fatiguing typing experience during prolonged use, such as at work or during long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana features a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial push feel when typing. This difference highlights that the Jupiter Banana is better suited for users who prefer a firmer switch. Overall, while both switches fall within medium to medium-heavy ranges, the Ice is the lighter option, offering a softer touch compared to the heavier resistance of the Jupiter Banana.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, the Ice switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jupiter Banana measures 3.4 mm. This makes the Jupiter Banana the shorter option of the two, appealing to gamers and users seeking a quicker, more responsive feel when typing or gaming. Conversely, the TTC Ice, with its longer travel distance, might be favored by those who appreciate a more tactile depth in their key presses, as it offers a slightly deeper response with each actuation. While both switches fall below the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, the Ice provides a more substantial feel, whereas the Jupiter Banana caters to preferences for snappier actions. Ultimately, your choice between the two will hinge on whether you value depth or responsiveness in your typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Ice switch is specifically praised for its satisfying bottom-out sound, which is often associated with a more muted and pleasant auditory experience, suitable for both quiet environments and dynamic gaming sessions. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana produces a high-pitched sound that is clean and resonant, offering a sharper auditory experience. The sharpness of the Jupiter Banana's sound may provide an immersive typing experience, particularly for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback during key presses. However, as sound is also influenced by keycap choice and the keyboard's construction, individual experiences may vary.

In terms of tactile feel, the TTC Ice linear switch is characterized by its smooth and responsive action, providing a seamless typing experience ideal for both recreational and competitive users. Conversely, the Jupiter Banana boasts a polished and creamy feel, thanks to its refined finish and possible factory lubrication. This results in reduced friction and a silky sensation as fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. While the TTC Ice offers a fluid motion without tactile bump, the Jupiter Banana engages users with its tactile feedback, enhancing typing accuracy and satisfaction for those who enjoy a noticeable sensation when pressing down on a key.

In conclusion, while the TTC Ice and Gateron Jupiter Banana switches cater to different preferences regarding sound and feel, they each deliver quality experiences in their respective categories. The Ice switch appeals to those seeking a smooth typing experience with a satisfying sound, while the Jupiter Banana is ideal for users who prefer a tactile sensation coupled with a sharper auditory feedback. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches will come down to individual taste, as each provides distinct advantages tailored to specific typing styles and auditory preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, your choice between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a smooth and responsive feel with a satisfying bottom-out sound, the TTC Ice is an excellent option. Its 60-gram bottom-out force makes it a solid choice for long typing sessions, whether you're gaming or typing. The Ice switch's transparent design also adds a visually appealing element to your setup, especially if backlighting is a consideration for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is designed for you. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 69 grams, it offers a more pronounced tactile bump, while the polished and creamy feel ensures a smooth key press. The high-pitched, resonant sound produced by the Jupiter Banana will also appeal to those who enjoy auditory feedback during typing. Therefore, if you appreciate a tactile sensation with that satisfying click, the Jupiter Banana will likely meet your needs. In the end, both switches have their strengths, so it all comes down to whether you prefer a linear, smooth typing experience or a tactile, engaging one.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Ice Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more