Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Durock Koala
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Durock Koala switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Durock Koala mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Banana is renowned for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, thanks to its two-stage springs that ensure a strong return and consistent feel. This tactile switch is characterized as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant'. On the other hand, the Durock Koala strikes a balance between tactile feedback and keystroke intensity, offering a stepped tactility that provides a pronounced bump without spanning the entire keystroke. Categorized as 'Polished', 'Low-pitched', 'Accented', 'Neutral', 'Stepped', and 'Stiff', the Koala offers a bit of resonance without being overly loud. While both switches have their advantages, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences and typing style. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Durock Koala feature polycarbonate top housings, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. The aesthetic appeal of a clear housing is also a common trait of polycarbonate material, adding to the overall visual appeal of the switches.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both the Jupiter Banana and Koala switches offer a different typing experience. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder materials. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings, adding a unique tactile feel to the typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings differ in material for the Jupiter Banana and Koala switches, the impact of each housing material is split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This split in qualities provides a well-rounded typing experience that combines the sharpness of polycarbonate with the depth and fullness of nylon for a unique and satisfying user experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, we find that the Jupiter Banana is lighter in terms of actuation force at 59 grams, compared to the Koala which is unknown. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Jupiter Banana requiring 69 grams and the Koala requiring 67 grams. This means that while the Koala may have a slightly lighter actuation force, the overall typing experience in terms of bottoming out will be similar for both switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods, the Jupiter Banana might be the better choice, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Koala. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Durock Koala tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jupiter Banana will provide a quicker response time for those who prefer shorter travel distances, such as gamers looking for optimal speed in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Koala offers a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial feel to their typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preference, with the Jupiter Banana catering to those seeking a faster response and the Koala appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile sensation. Ultimately, selecting between the two will depend on individual typing style and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Koala has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Koala for $4.21.
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 Jupiter Banana switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant sound, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience that can be immersive and clean. On the other hand, the Durock Koala switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various purposes. Both switches provide different auditory experiences, with the Jupiter Banana being more sharp and the Koala being more moderate in sound.
When it comes to feel, both the Jupiter Banana and Durock Koala switches are described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Jupiter Banana is noted for its creamy feel, offering a buttery typing sensation that glides effortlessly across the keys. In contrast, the Durock Koala is accented and stepped, providing a medium tactile bump that is prominent but not overwhelming, allowing for a distinct tactile feedback during keystrokes. The Koala switch also has a stiff feel, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate compared to other switches.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Durock Koala switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile feels, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and resonant sound with a creamy typing experience, the Durock Koala offers a low-pitched and neutral sound with a polished yet accented and stepped tactile feel. Depending on your preference for sound and tactile feedback, both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences, with the Jupiter Banana leaning towards a sharper sound and creamier feel, while the Durock Koala offers a mellow sound and a more pronounced tactile response. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Durock Koala tactile switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, along with a polished and creamy typing experience, the Jupiter Banana may be more to your liking. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched, neutral sound profile with accented and stepped tactility, along with a polished feel, the Koala could be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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