Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Jupiter Brown mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Jupiter Banana is known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, thanks to its two-stage springs that provide a strong return and consistent feel. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown offers a more classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight with its single-stage spring design. Both switches boast high-precision molds and enhanced softer backlight effects, blending tradition with innovation. While the Jupiter Banana is categorized as polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant, the Jupiter Brown is categorized as mild, polished, and stepped. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style; however, let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can choose the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Spring steel
Spring
Spring steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Jupiter Brown are quite similar, as both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share the same housing materials for the top and bottom, the impact of these materials may differ based on where they are used in the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, as it absorbs more sound and creates a fuller sound profile. Conversely, the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This highlights how the distribution of housing materials can affect different aspects of typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Jupiter Brown offer similar sound profiles due to their shared housing materials. Both switches benefit from the stiffer polycarbonate top housing for a clearer sound with RGB lighting capabilities, while the softer nylon bottom housing enhances the overall typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Understanding the role of each housing material within the switch can help users determine the best option based on their sound preferences and aesthetic requirements.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Jupiter Brown tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Jupiter Banana at 69 grams and the Jupiter Brown at 70 grams. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Jupiter Brown might be the preferable choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Jupiter Banana for its slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-heavy typing experience that caters to different preferences for typing or gaming use.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance compared to the Jupiter Brown. A travel distance of 4 mm is considered more traditional, providing a deeper key press feel, while a 3.4 mm travel distance is shallower and may offer faster response times preferred by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits, with the Jupiter Banana offering a shorter travel distance and the Jupiter Brown offering a longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision comes down to individual preference for typing feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $2.80. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Jupiter Banana and Jupiter Brown.
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 Jupiter Banana tactile switch is characterized by its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, producing sharp and crisp sounds when pressed. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Jupiter Brown tactile switch is unknown, but it is important to note that sound can also be influenced by factors such as keyboard type and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is described as polished and creamy, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Jupiter Brown switch offers a mild typing experience with a safe, middle-ground feel. The Brown switch is also described as polished and stepped, indicating a smooth and refined finish with a two-stage tactile feel, unlike the more pronounced characteristics of other switches.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Brown tactile switches both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Banana switch excels in providing a polished and creamy typing experience with high-pitched sounds, the Brown switch offers a more traditional keystroke feel with unknown sound qualities. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring a balance between performance and aesthetic appeal. Ultimately, both switches are designed with high-precision molds and enhanced backlight effects, showcasing Gateron's commitment to reliable performance in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a slightly softer and more refined typing experience, the Gateron Jupiter Banana would be a great choice for you. With its high-precision molds and two-stage springs, it offers a strong return and consistent feel. Additionally, if you enjoy a high-pitched and resonant sound profile while typing, the Jupiter Banana may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, the Gateron Jupiter Brown would be the suitable option. With its single-stage spring and high-precision molds, it provides a reliable performance with a more traditional touch. Ultimately, the decision between the Jupiter Banana and Jupiter Brown will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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