Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Lunar Probe, a linear switch. The Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, thanks to its two-stage springs that ensure a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe boasts Gateron's unique dual rail mechanism for stable and consistent keypresses, offering an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation. While the Jupiter Banana is known for its polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant characteristics, the Lunar Probe's categorization remains a mystery. Ultimately, determining which switch is best for you may require a closer look at their specific features and qualities. 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
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Lunar Probe feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. The similarities in the top housing materials of both switches ensure that users can expect a consistent sound experience when typing on either the Jupiter Banana or the Lunar Probe.
On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana boasts a nylon bottom housing, while the Lunar Probe also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both the Jupiter Banana and the Lunar Probe highlights the importance of the material in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Lunar Probe plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and overall typing experience of the switches. While the top housings are made from polycarbonate for a sharper sound, the bottom housings feature nylon for a deeper and fuller sound. This combination of materials ensures that users can enjoy a balanced and satisfying typing experience with either keyboard, with each material contributing its unique qualities to the overall sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is evident that the Lunar Probe 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, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Lunar Probe boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. The differences in weight cater to different preferences, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions and heavier switches for those seeking a more robust typing feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch offer distinct typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers. Choosing between the two ultimately boils down to personal preference - the Jupiter Banana for a slightly quicker and more responsive feel, or the Lunar Probe for a slightly deeper and more substantial press. Overall, both switches offer a modern and efficient travel distance that caters to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. Keep in mind that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is characterized by its polished and creamy feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Meanwhile, information on the feel of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is unavailable, making it challenging to make a direct comparison between the two switches in this regard. It's worth noting that the feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keycap material and typing technique.
Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a high-pitched sound and a polished, creamy feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a more subtle sound signature and a smooth, pre-lubed sensation, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch may be a better option. Remember that the choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch or the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is important to focus on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a tactile typing experience with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, then the Jupiter Banana switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and smooth, pre-lubed linear keypresses with a stable and consistent feel, then the Lunar Probe switch may be the better option. Keep in mind the sound and feel descriptions of each switch as well to make an informed decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Jupiter Banana and Lunar Probe switches will depend on what type of typing experience you value most.
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