Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. HMX Lotus (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between various options, each with its unique characteristics and appeal. The Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, stands out with its high-precision molds and soft backlight effects, offering users a satisfying tactile response with every keystroke. Enhanced with two-stage springs, it ensures a strong return and a consistent typing experience that is perfect for those who enjoy feeling the actuation. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch caters to those who prefer a smoother, uninterrupted keypress. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62.5g and bright, resonant acoustics, the Lotus switch delivers a super bouncy feeling that elevates the typing experience into something truly delightful. While the Jupiter Banana appeals to tactile enthusiasts seeking feedback with each press, the Lotus (Heavy) attracts linear switch lovers who enjoy a fluid and seamless interaction. 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

HMX Lotus (Heavy) Linear

$2.80 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HMX Lotus (Heavy), significant differences can be noted, particularly in the choice of plastic used for the top housing. The Jupiter Banana features a polycarbonate top housing, which is recognized for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This quality makes it especially advantageous for users who desire a clear auditory feedback from their switches, particularly for those incorporating RGB lighting due to the material’s translucency. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) uses a nylon top housing, which is known for being softer and providing a deeper, fuller sound profile. Because nylon absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, the auditory feedback it provides is rounder and less crisp, which may appeal to users preferring a subtler sound.

Although both switches have nylon bottom housings, their combined housing configurations yield distinct tactile and auditory experiences. The Jupiter Banana’s nylon bottom housing contributes to its deep and full sound profile, complementing the higher-pitched notes produced by its polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) maintains a consistent fuller sound throughout, with both its top and bottom made of nylon. This design leads to a more unified sound experience, providing a smooth typing feel that many users find satisfying. It’s essential to note that while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel primarily, the impact of the material choice creates a unique sound character when combined with each switch’s respective top housing.

In summary, while the Jupiter Banana and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, their differing top housing materials create distinct personas for each switch. Users who opt for the Jupiter Banana will likely appreciate the clearer and sharper acoustic response, ideal for a brighter typing experience, especially in environments with RGB lighting. Conversely, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) delivers a more cohesive and rounded sound profile, appealing to those who favor a deeper, more immersive tactile experience. Despite their shared nylon bottom, the nuanced differences in sound profiles and user experience cater to different preferences and typing styles, ultimately leading to personalized enjoyment of each switch.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in both their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Lotus (Heavy) features a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, placing it in the medium range. This means that the Gateron switch requires slightly more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the HMX switch, appealing more to those who prefer a firmer typing experience. Those seeking a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions might gravitate towards the Lotus switch, while enthusiasts who enjoy a substantial push feel may prefer the heavier characteristics of the Jupiter Banana. Overall, the differences in force suggest distinct typing experiences, catering to both preferences effectively.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Jupiter Banana the shorter option, appealing to those who favor a more responsive key press, such as gamers who seek quicker response times. On the other hand, the Lotus (Heavy) provides a bit more depth to the pressing experience, which may be preferable for users who enjoy a more substantial tactile feel when typing. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for either a quicker response or a more pronounced key travel experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches produce a high-pitched and resonant tone when pressed, delivering a sharp and crisp auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. This sound profile is clean and immersive, catering to those who prefer a more elevated pitch rather than a deeper, bassy audio characteristic. The bright, high-frequency notes can create a delightful auditory environment for users who enjoy that type of sound. In contrast, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) switches have a bright and resonant sound as well, though the specific details about their audio profile are less described. The sound quality of the Lotus switches complements the typing experience with a more refined and clear noise, but without further specifics, a direct comparison on sound may be limited.

When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Banana switches offer a polished and creamy typing experience, ensuring a smooth and refined keystroke. The use of high-precision molds and two-stage springs contributes to a consistent and enjoyable tactile sensation, allowing the fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. This results in reduced friction and a luxurious tactile feedback. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX Lotus (Heavy) is a bit more ambiguous as there are no specific descriptors provided. However, knowing they are medium-heavy with a weight of 62.5g suggests a firmer feel that may enhance the tactile feedback during typing. Without explicit descriptions of the Lotus’s tactile sensations, it’s challenging to draw a strong comparison, but if the Lotus switches maintain a well-engineered construction, a satisfying typing experience can be anticipated.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switches and HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switches offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences, with the Jupiter Banana standing out in terms of both their sound and feel due to detailed descriptions available. The Jupiter Banana excels with its polished and creamy nature paired with a high-pitched auditory profile that many will appreciate, while the Lotus (Heavy) invites curiosity with its potential for a bouncy feel and resonant sound—though specifics are less defined. Ultimately, choosing between them could come down to personal preference regarding feel and sound, as well as experimenting with various keyboard setups to find the one that best suits individual typing styles.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch, it's essential to consider your personal typing style and preferences. If you appreciate a tactile response that enhances your typing experience, the Jupiter Banana is an excellent choice. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 69 grams and polished, creamy feel, combined with the high-pitched, resonant sound, make it ideal if you enjoy a more engaging and dynamic keystroke with that satisfying tactile feedback. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who type a lot and desire a balance of comfort and responsiveness. Conversely, if you prefer a smooth, bouncy keystroke and don't require tactile feedback, the HMX Lotus (Heavy) linear switch may be more to your liking. Its slightly lighter bottom-out force of 62.5 grams provides a relaxed typing experience, and its bright, resonant sound can make your typing feel lively and enjoyable. In essence, your choice should reflect whether you favor the tactile nuances of the Jupiter Banana or the fluidity and bounce of the Lotus (Heavy).

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

HMX Lotus (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more