Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch. The Jupiter Banana is praised for its high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, and two-stage springs that ensure a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Lotus switch is known for its medium weight of 50g bottom out, bright, resonant sound, and super bouncy feeling with each keystroke. While the Jupiter Banana offers a polished, high-pitched, creamy typing experience, the Lotus provides a more subtle and smooth typing sensation. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HMX Lotus switches differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Jupiter Banana features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Lotus utilizes a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a similar deep and full sound profile. The nylon material in the bottom housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a dull and rounded sound when typing. However, the top housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound experience of the switch. The difference in top housing material between the Jupiter Banana and the Lotus affects the sound when pressing and releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Banana will produce a crisper sound upon key release, while the nylon top housing of the Lotus will result in a fuller sound release.
In summary, the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HMX Lotus switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their composition. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Banana provides a sharper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Lotus creates a deeper sound experience. Despite sharing a nylon bottom housing, the switches have unique characteristics that impact the overall typing experience. The choice between these switches will depend on the desired sound profile and feel, with the top housing material playing a critical role in determining the overall sound output.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it is evident that the Lotus is lighter in both aspects. The Jupiter Banana has a medium-heavy actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, while the Lotus has a light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Jupiter Banana will provide a stronger push feel and more substantial typing experience compared to the lighter and softer touch of the Lotus. Individuals who prefer a longer typing duration may favor the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Lotus, making it a suitable choice for extended use during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience may opt for the heavier forces of the Jupiter Banana. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While the difference between the two may seem minimal, it can still impact the overall typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may cater more to those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Lotus may offer a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes for those who prefer a more traditional feel. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, but the Lotus edges out as the longer option in this comparison. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 is known for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, creating a sharp and crisp auditory experience that some users may find more pleasing than deeper, bassy switches. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus linear switch's sound characteristics are not specified, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, it is important to consider that sound perception can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a polished and creamy typing experience, characterized by a smooth and refined key press with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This type of switch is designed to provide a sleek typing sensation that feels effortless and luxurious. On the contrary, the feel of the HMX Lotus linear switch is not detailed, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in terms of tactile feedback and keypress experience. It is worth noting that the selection of keycap material and switch lubrication can also impact the overall typing feel.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch boasts a high-pitched and resonant sound profile along with a polished and creamy typing feel, the specific sound and feel qualities of the HMX Lotus linear switch are not specified. Based on the information provided, it is clear that both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a sharp and crisp sound with a smooth and refined typing experience, the Gateron Jupiter Banana may be the ideal choice. Conversely, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a bouncy feel, the HMX Lotus could also provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, it is important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a tactile feedback that offers a strong return and consistent feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a super bouncy feeling and a bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the kind of switch characteristics that enhance your overall typing experience.
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