Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Bsun Kiki Red

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, and the Bsun Kiki Red, a linear switch. The Jupiter Banana is known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a strong return and consistent feel with its two-stage springs. On the other hand, the Kiki Red offers a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortable high-pitched and clacky nuance. The all-POM housings and Ly stems of the Kiki Red contribute to a unique sound signature and exceptional smoothness during actuation. While the Jupiter Banana is categorized as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant', the Kiki Red is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Polished', 'Silky', 'Snappy', and 'Easy-to-press'. In general, the Jupiter Banana may be preferred by those looking for a tactile switch with softer backlight effects, while the Kiki Red may appeal to enthusiasts seeking a linear switch with a unique sound signature and smooth actuation. 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 Jupiter Banana Tactile

Bsun Kiki Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

$4.70

$3.83 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Bsun Kiki Red, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles. The Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Kiki Red's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both materials excel in providing a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different tones. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Banana enhances the switch's sound profile by adding depth and fullness, while the POM bottom housing of the Kiki Red complements the top housing by contributing to a deeper sound profile.

Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Bsun Kiki Red aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the Jupiter Banana's top housing and POM in the Kiki Red's top housing showcase each material's unique sound characteristics. While the Jupiter Banana offers a crisper and more resonant sound, the Kiki Red delivers a deeper and more muted tone. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Banana and the POM bottom housing of the Kiki Red both contribute to creating a fuller and rounder sound, emphasizing the overall typing experience of each switch.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Bsun Kiki Red boils down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp and clear sound, the Kiki Red's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted tone. Both switches utilize different bottom housing materials to enhance their sound profiles, with the Jupiter Banana leaning towards a more resonant sound and the Kiki Red focusing on a fuller sound. Whether you prefer a sharper or deeper sound, both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it is clear that the Kiki Red is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana has a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, making it a heavier option. The lighter weight of the Kiki Red may be preferable for those who prioritize longer typing or gaming sessions without experiencing fatigue, while the Jupiter Banana's heavier force may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of the switches play a significant role in determining the typing feel and experience for users, with lighter forces offering a smoother typing experience and heavier forces providing a more tactile and satisfying feel.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quick response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly quicker keystroke with the Jupiter Banana switch. For individuals who prefer a more substantial key press and deeper actuation, the Kiki Red switch may be the preferred choice due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and actuation depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offers a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy typing sound. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, with the Jupiter Banana emphasizing a higher-pitched sound, while the Kiki Red focuses on a bright and percussive clackiness.

In terms of feel, both the Jupiter Banana and Kiki Red switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience. The Jupiter Banana is described as polished and creamy, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience. Similarly, the Kiki Red boasts a creamy feel, offering a silky sensation with minimal resistance and effortless key presses. The Kiki Red also includes descriptors such as frictionless, snappy, and easy-to-press, highlighting its smooth and responsive typing performance.

Overall, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Banana excels in providing a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, coupled with a polished and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Kiki Red stands out with its clacky sound and creamy, frictionless feel, offering a balance of audial feedback and smooth key presses. Whether you prefer a sharper sound like the Jupiter Banana or a crisp clackiness like the Kiki Red, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with different nuances.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch or the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a polished and creamy typing feel, along with a high-pitched and resonant sound, then the Jupiter Banana may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a creamy and frictionless typing feel, along with a clacky sound profile, then the Kiki Red could be the better option. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired tactile feedback when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, choose the switch that best suits your individual preferences and typing needs.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Kiki Red Linear

$4.70

$3.83 per 10

Learn more