Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Luciola offer unique qualities to consider. The Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, making it ideal for those who prefer a more polished and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Luciola is a linear switch that stands out with its glowing feature in the dark and smooth, bouncy typing feel. This switch is perfect for individuals who enjoy a snappy, clacky typing experience with a hint of buttery smoothness. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Luciola both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Jupiter Banana features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the Luciola uses a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound without being overly sharp. While the Jupiter Banana's top housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, the Luciola's top housing offers a satisfying clacky sound that is not too harsh.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Jupiter Banana utilizes a nylon material that generates a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Luciola's proprietary INK blend bottom housing complements its top housing by contributing to the same pointed and high-pitched sound profile. Both switches provide distinct typing experiences based on their bottom housing materials, with the Jupiter Banana offering a more muffled and rounded sound compared to the Luciola's emphasis on a clacky and sharp tone.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Luciola differ in material, they each bring unique qualities to the typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials means that users will feel the impact of the bottom housing when pressing down on a key, while the sound profile is more influenced by the top housing when releasing a key. This distinction allows for a varied typing experience, with the Jupiter Banana offering a clearer and more resonant sound, while the Luciola provides a satisfying clacky tone. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Luciola linear switch. The Jupiter Banana requires 59 grams to actuate and 69 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Luciola only needs 55 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, making it a medium switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Luciola more appealing, as it requires less force for both actuation and bottoming out. Conversely, users looking for a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Jupiter Banana due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force required for each keystroke.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Jupiter Banana for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Luciola with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, while there is a slight difference in travel distance between the two switches, both provide a tactile typing experience that many users enjoy.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant properties, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is described as clacky, chirpy, and marbly, offering a bright and percussive typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Jupiter Banana may appeal to those who enjoy a cleaner and sharper sound profile, while the Luciola may cater to individuals who appreciate a more unique and lively auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Banana is characterized as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience akin to gliding effortlessly across the keys. Conversely, the Luciola is described as snappy, buttery, and polished, providing a responsive and fluid keystroke sensation. Depending on individual typing preferences, the Jupiter Banana may be preferred for its refined and luxurious feel, while the Luciola may be favored for its responsiveness and seamless typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and polished typing experience, while the Luciola offers a clacky and snappy typing sensation. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so selecting between the two would depend on individual taste and typing style. Ultimately, whether you choose the Jupiter Banana or the Luciola, you can expect a level of quality and performance that Gateron switches are known for.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and softer backlight effects, the Gateron Jupiter Banana would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and glow-in-the-dark feature, the Gateron Luciola would be more suitable for your needs. Consider the sound profile and typing feel that best fits your preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose accordingly based on what you prioritize in your typing experience.
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