Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Zuoce Lavender
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Zuoce Lavender switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a tactile experience with strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Lavender switch boasts exceptional smoothness and a crisp, clacky sound signature right out of the box, making each keystroke satisfying. While the Jupiter Banana is polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant, the Lavender is easy-to-press and clacky. Each switch has its own strengths and potential benefits, but diving deeper into their specifics will help you make the best decision for your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Zuoce Lavender, one noticeable difference is in their top housings. The Jupiter Banana features a polycarbonate top housing, known for providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Lavender uses a POM top housing, producing a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Banana may be preferred for its clarity and resonance, especially for users who enjoy RGB lighting effects.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing of these switches, both models showcase different materials with distinct sound profiles. The Jupiter Banana utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Lavender employs a POM bottom housing, offering a deep and muted sound profile, similar to its POM top housing. While both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound of the switch, the differences in material may impact the sound experience for users who prefer a specific sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Zuoce Lavender will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic. While the Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound suitable for RGB lighting enthusiasts, the Lavender's POM housing offers a unique and pleasing deeper sound. Whether users prefer a more resonant sound from the polycarbonate top housing or a muted sound from the POM housing, both switches provide a variety of sound profiles to cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two models will depend on individual sound preferences and desired typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch differ in weight, with the Jupiter Banana being heavier. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, while the Lavender has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams. The Jupiter Banana offers a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Lavender provides a medium-light touch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Lavender for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may enjoy the heavier push feel of the Jupiter Banana for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a unique feel based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for weight in a keyboard switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, we can see that both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This means that whether you choose the Jupiter Banana or the Lavender, you can expect to get comparable results in terms of keypress feel and feedback. The travel distance of both switches falls within the standard range for mechanical keyboard switches, offering a satisfying tactile or linear response for users depending on their preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 tactile switch offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, producing a sharp and crisp sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, providing a satisfyingly sharp and snappy sound profile. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Jupiter Banana leaning towards a cleaner and sharper sound, while the Lavender switch delivers a bright and percussive typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is characterized by its polished and creamy typing experience. These switches are smooth and refined, offering reduced friction and a sleek typing sensation. The Zuoce Lavender linear switch, on the other hand, is described as easy-to-press, with gentle resistance during key presses and a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. The Jupiter Banana provides a luxurious and buttery feel, while the Lavender switch offers a responsive and low-impact typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy typing feel, the Lavender switch delivers a clacky sound and an easy-to-press typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct benefits depending on individual preferences, providing a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Zuoce Lavender linear switch, you should consider your preferred typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force, high-precision molds, and a strong tactile feedback with a high-pitched and resonant sound, then the Jupiter Banana may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, exceptional smoothness, crisp and clacky sound with easy-to-press keys, the Lavender switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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