Gateron Ink Red vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red, a linear switch, to the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, some key differences come to light. The Ink Red is ideal for those with a lighter typing style due to its lower actuation force. Known for its smooth feel and satisfyingly clacky sound profile, this switch is perfect for effortless typing. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, thanks to the two-stage springs that ensure a strong return and consistent feel. While the Ink Red is characterized by its neutral, silky, chirpy, mild, and polished qualities, the Jupiter Banana is defined by its polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant attributes. Both switches have their unique advantages, making them suitable for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Red and Gateron Jupiter Banana both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Ink Red utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both the top and bottom housing, which results in a thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. While both switches offer a satisfying sound experience, the INK blend in the Ink Red may appeal more to those who prefer a slightly softer and less sharp sound, while the polycarbonate in the Jupiter Banana is ideal for those who enjoy a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Ink Red's INK blend continues to provide a high-pitched sound profile that complements the top housing. Conversely, the Jupiter Banana features a nylon bottom housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the Ink Red's bottom housing. This difference in bottom housing material may appeal to users based on their preference for sound profile when typing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron Ink Red and Gateron Jupiter Banana plays a significant role in the sound profiles of these switches. While the INK blend in the Ink Red offers a consistent thin and clacky sound throughout, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Jupiter Banana results in a sharper top sound and a deeper bottom sound, respectively. Whether you prefer a softer, clacky sound or a sharper, fuller sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different sound preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's preference for sound profile when typing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, it is clear that the Ink Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Jupiter Banana's heavier actuation force of 59 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Ink Red is 60 grams, while the Jupiter Banana has a heavier bottom out force of 69 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, but the Jupiter Banana leans towards the heavier side. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Gateron Ink Red, while individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may favor the Gateron Jupiter Banana for its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Ink Red linear switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Jupiter Banana tactile switch. The shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Ink Red switch may provide a more satisfying depth to those who prefer a more pronounced key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance in keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is well-known for its neutral sound profile that is suitable for most typing intents and purposes, making it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced users. The Ink Red switch also has a unique chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience that is clean and sharp. The sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Ink Red linear switch and the Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer a smooth typing experience. The Ink Red is described as silky, mild, and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing feel that minimizes resistance when pressing keys. Similarly, the Jupiter Banana switch is also described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience due to lubricant or specific materials used in the manufacturing process. Both switches provide a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer different sound profiles, they both provide a smooth and refined typing experience. Users can expect a satisfyingly smooth feel from both switches, with the Ink Red having a crisp and clacky sound, while the Jupiter Banana offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches offer excellent quality and performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with a lower actuation force, smooth keystrokes, and a crispy sound profile, the Ink Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a stronger return, softer backlight effects, and a high-pitched, resonant sound profile, the Jupiter Banana could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your personal typing style.
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