Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Jupiter Red mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that they each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a strong return and consistent feel for users. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red is a linear switch that offers a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation. Both switches feature high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, but the Jupiter Red is best suited for those who prefer a seamless and consistent typing experience. 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
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 Gateron Jupiter Banana and Gateron Jupiter Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material is ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting due to its translucency. While the top housings are the same for both switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana has a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Gateron Jupiter Red's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite similar top housings, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Gateron Jupiter Red differ in their bottom housings, with the former utilizing nylon and the latter also featuring a nylon bottom housing. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile feedback based on the combination of their housing materials, providing users with different typing experiences.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Gateron Jupiter Red showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile and tactile feedback of mechanical switches. While both switches share polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Gateron Jupiter Red. The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches results in unique typing experiences, showcasing the subtle yet impactful differences between the two models.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Banana switch requires 69 grams, while the Red switch requires 60 grams. This means that the Jupiter Banana switch is heavier both in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Jupiter Red switch. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Jupiter Banana due to its heavier forces, while those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Jupiter Red. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Jupiter Banana will provide a slightly quicker response time compared to the Jupiter Red. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Jupiter Banana due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more gradual key press and a deeper feeling when typing may opt for the Jupiter Red with its longer travel distance. Each switch offers a unique feel and experience based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences.
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 Red.
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 known for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for various typing environments. The sound produced by both switches can be affected by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch are described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Jupiter Red switch is highlighted for its silky and mild characteristics, enhancing the overall typing feel and providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches aim to deliver a sleek and seamless typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch have their unique sound and feel profiles, both switches prioritize precision molds, softer backlight effects, and a consistent typing experience. Whether opting for the high-pitched sound and polished, creamy feel of the Jupiter Banana or the neutral sound and silky, mild feel of the Jupiter Red, users can expect similar high-quality results in terms of performance and comfort. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, enhanced return feel, and softer backlight effects, then the Jupiter Banana may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke with a medium bottom out force and high-precision molds, the Jupiter Red linear switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and the specific feel and sound profile you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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