Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come up for debate are the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch. The Gateron Jupiter Banana is well-known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, offering a tactile typing experience with a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch is recognized for its medium weight, classic clacky sound signature, and exceptional smoothness in operation. While the Jupiter Banana is polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant, the Master is clacky, mild, and polished. Each switch caters to different preferences and typing styles, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you. 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
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Dareu Master switches have notable differences in terms of the sound profiles they produce. The Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is clear and resonant due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. In contrast, the Master's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches have POM bottom housings, creating a similar deep and pleasing sound profile that is relatively more muted compared to the top housing of the Jupiter Banana.
In terms of aesthetics, the Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Master's POM top housing does not offer this feature. Both switches have nylon bottom housings, with the Jupiter Banana's nylon bottom creating a fuller sound profile due to its softer nature compared to the Master's POM bottom housing. Overall, while the top housings of the two switches differ in sound profiles, the bottom housings contribute to a similar deep and muted sound quality.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Dareu Master switches play a significant role. The bottom housing material affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, with the Jupiter Banana's softer nylon bottom creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the Master's POM bottom housing. On the other hand, the top housing material has more impact on the sound produced when a key is released, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Banana creating a sharper and clearer sound profile compared to the deeper and more muted sound of the Master's POM top housing. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials results in unique typing experiences for each switch.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Dareu Master linear switch with an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Master switch lighter in this aspect. However, the bottom out force of the Jupiter Banana is 69 grams, which is heavier than the Master switch with an unknown bottom out force. The Jupiter Banana provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, while the Master switch offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a smoother typing feel. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4mm, making them equal in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar travel distance. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying keystroke experience despite having different tactile and linear characteristics. Their identical travel distances ensure that whether you choose the Jupiter Banana or the Master, you can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 characterized by a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and immersive auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a clacky sound signature, delivering a crisp, bright, and percussive sound with each key press. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, making them suitable options depending on the desired typing experience and environment.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is known for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a sleek sensation when typing. In contrast, the Dareu Master linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, showcasing a more gentle approachable feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches prioritize smoothness and refined typing experiences, making them suitable choices for users seeking a comfortable and effortless typing session.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Banana excels in providing a high-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy feel, the Master stands out for its clacky sound signature and mild, polished typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup and customize their typing experience accordingly. Ultimately, both switches guarantee a satisfying and premium typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, enhanced with two-stage springs for a strong return and consistent feel, and enjoy a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, then the Jupiter Banana may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium weight, providing a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation, and a more mild and polished typing experience, then the Dareu Master switch would be a suitable choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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