Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana

Overview

When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Jupiter Banana are popular choices to consider. The Ink Box Black is a linear switch known for its smooth and creamy feel, resembling the sound of a spray paint can being shaken. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch that stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, enhanced with two-stage springs for a strong return and consistent feel. While the Ink Box Black offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, the Jupiter Banana provides a polished and resonant feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences, making them suitable for various typing needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

$2.80 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, we see that the Ink Box Black features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, both characterized by a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound.

While the Ink Box Black's INK blend top housing and bottom housing contribute to a consistent high-pitched and clacky sound profile, the Gateron Jupiter Banana offers a contrast with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. The difference in housing materials creates a distinct sound experience for each switch, with the Ink Box Black providing a more uniform sound profile and the Jupiter Banana offering a sharper and crisper sound with deeper tones. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Jupiter Banana's top housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch that may not be present in the Ink Box Black.

Overall, while the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Gateron Jupiter Banana both provide satisfying typing experiences, their housing materials play a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of each switch. The INK blend of the Ink Box Black delivers a consistent high-pitched and clacky sound, while the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Jupiter Banana creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound with deeper tones. Whether you prefer a more uniform sound or enjoy the contrast of sharp and deep tones, both switches offer unique sound profiles that are influenced by their housing materials.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, we find that both switches have similar weight requirements for actuation and bottom out. The Ink Box Black has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Jupiter Banana's 59 grams, while both have a bottom out force of 70 grams and 69 grams respectively. This makes them both fall in the medium-heavy category. The actuation force determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force required to press the key all the way down. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the heavier force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a balanced weight profile that caters to different preferences in typing and gaming.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Ink Box Black slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Jupiter Banana. In terms of usability, the shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Ink Box Black may provide a more satisfying and deliberate key press for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing or gaming experience desired.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, resembling the sharp and crisp sound of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound, providing a clean and immersive auditory experience. Both switches cater to those who prefer a brighter and sharper sound while typing, with slight variations in the pitch and resonance.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Box Black switch is lauded for its silky and polished typing experience, offering minimal resistance and enhancing the overall smoothness of key presses. Similarly, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch boasts a polished and creamy feel, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches prioritize a smooth and buttery sensation while typing, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable tactile experience for users.

Overall, both the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer exceptional sound and feel qualities that cater to those who appreciate a smooth and precise typing experience. While the Ink Box Black leans towards a clackier sound with a silky feel, the Jupiter Banana provides a more resonant sound with a creamy sensation. Depending on personal preferences, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel excellence with either of these Gateron switch options.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and creamy linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Box Black would be a great choice for you. The sound signature is clacky and high-pitched, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a softer backlight effect and strong return, the Gateron Jupiter Banana would suit you better. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force and offer a polished and creamy feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your preference for linear or tactile switches and the specific sound and feel you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard. Choose the one that best matches your typing style and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more