PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Gateron Jupiter Banana
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda, a linear switch, and the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Jacaranda stands out with its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers and ideal for fatigue-free typing. Its clacky sound signature and uniquely bouncy sensation from the extended 22mm spring enhance the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana by Gateron boasts high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, thanks to its two-stage springs that ensure a strong return and consistent feel. While the Jacaranda is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, the Jupiter Banana is described as polished and creamy. Both switches offer distinct advantages, catering to different typing preferences. 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
39g
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
69g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Jupiter Banana are quite similar in terms of their top housing, both being made of polycarbonate. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the bottom housing materials differ, with the Jacaranda using nylon and the Jupiter Banana also utilizing nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing, the PH Studio Jacaranda and Gateron Jupiter Banana differ in their choice of bottom housing material. This contrast in housing materials impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Banana offers a similar experience. The bottom housing material has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda and Gateron Jupiter Banana showcase the importance of housing materials in creating a unique typing experience. While the top housing's polycarbonate material delivers a sharp and clear sound profile, the bottom housing's nylon material enhances the depth and richness of the sound. Despite these differences in housing materials, both switches offer a distinct tactile and auditory experience for users. It is important to consider how the combination of top and bottom housing materials can impact the overall performance and feel of a switch when choosing between these two options.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for those looking for a heavier typing experience. The Jacaranda switch would be better suited for individuals who prefer to type for extended periods without much strain, while the Jupiter Banana switch would be a better choice for those who value a more solid and pronounced keystroke feedback. Both switches provide unique typing experiences based on their respective actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for quick and responsive typing or gaming experiences. Gamers may prefer the Jupiter Banana for its slightly shorter travel distance, potentially offering a faster response time during intense gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback in their keystrokes may opt for the Jacaranda with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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, both the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch are described as having high-pitched and resonant profiles, providing a sharp and clean auditory experience. While the Jacaranda is noted for its clacky sound, the Jupiter Banana offers softer backlight effects. The sound production of both switches is influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana switch is noted for its polished and creamy feel, providing a smooth and buttery typing sensation with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Both switches aim to enhance the overall typing comfort and typing efficiency, catering to different preferences.
In conclusion, both the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jacaranda provides a bouncy and fatigue-free typing experience with a clacky sound signature, the Jupiter Banana ensures a strong return and consistent feel with polished and creamy keypresses. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can achieve satisfying results with either switch option.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force and a bouncy sensation with a crisp sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force with strong return and consistent feel, along with a high-pitched sound profile, the Jupiter Banana could be more suited to your preferences. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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