Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Huano Matcha Latte V2

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly influence your typing experience and overall satisfaction. The Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, stands out with its unique design and features like high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing users with a pronounced tactile bump for a more engaging typing experience. Its enhanced two-stage springs contribute to a strong return and consistent feel, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy feedback during their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Huano Matcha Latte V2, classified as a linear switch, offers a smooth and subtle typing experience that combines lightness with a solid bottom-out sensation. With generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, it caters to users who prefer a quieter and more seamless typing experience without the tactile disruption. Both switches have their unique appeal depending on individual preferences; the Jupiter Banana is ideal for tactile enthusiasts, while the Matcha Latte V2 is suited for those who favor a smoother keypress. 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

Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$2.80 per 10

$3.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Huano Matcha Latte V2, notable differences emerge primarily in the top housing. The Jupiter Banana utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, enhancing clarity and making it a popular choice for those looking to accentuate the sound when a key is released. Furthermore, because polycarbonate is translucent, it is particularly advantageous for setups incorporating RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination through the switch. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 opts for POK (polyketone) as its top housing material. While POK also aims for durability and possesses a smooth texture due to its lower coefficient of friction, it does not have the same sound-enhancing qualities as polycarbonate, resulting in a potentially different auditory experience when typing.

Both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which they share in common. Nylon's softer properties allow for a deeper and fuller sound profile, effectively absorbing sound and producing a smoother typing experience. This commonality means that both the Jupiter Banana and Matcha Latte V2 will exhibit auditory characteristics largely influenced by the nylon bottom housing when the switches bottom out. As a result, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, the user will experience a rounded and muted sound signature from both switches during actuation.

Ultimately, the performance of each switch is influenced by a combination of both the top and bottom housing materials. The Jupiter Banana, with its polycarbonate top, delivers a clear and sharp sound release, while the Matcha Latte V2, with its POK top, focuses more on smoothness and durability. However, given that both switches feature nylon at the base, users can expect a similar deep and resonant bottom-out sound and feel in both cases. Therefore, while the switches may produce different experiences in terms of sound when engaging and releasing keys, they will harmoniously align in terms of the bottom-out experience, presenting a nuanced yet cohesive typing sensation.

Weight

The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch exhibit notable differences in actuation force, which can significantly impact user experience. The Jupiter Banana requires an actuation force of 59 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch that offers a noticeable resistance, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. In contrast, the Matcha Latte V2 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, catering to users who favor a less strenuous typing experience, perfect for extended typing sessions or gaming. While the bottom out force for the Jupiter Banana is measured at 69 grams, the bottom out force for the Matcha Latte V2 is currently unknown. This lack of information means we can't make a direct comparison on that front. Overall, if you lean toward a heavier switch for a firmer feel, the Jupiter Banana is the clear choice, whereas if you prefer a lighter touch, the Matcha Latte V2 will likely suit you better.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch, the Jupiter Banana measures 3.4 mm, while the Matcha Latte V2 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Jupiter Banana the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive typing experience. Conversely, the Matcha Latte V2, with its greater travel distance, offers a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for deeper, more tactile engagement. As a result, those who like a more pronounced bottom-out experience may gravitate towards the Matcha Latte V2, while those who prioritize speed might choose the Jupiter Banana for its reduced travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch produces a high-pitched and resonant auditory signature. This results in a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, catering well to those who prefer a more defined audio feedback rather than a richer, bass-heavy profile. Its clean and immersive sound can enhance the overall typing experience, particularly for those who enjoy the acoustic qualities of their switches. In contrast, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch lacks specific descriptions for its sound profile, though it is generally a smooth linear switch; thus, one can expect a quieter typing experience compared to the Jupiter Banana.

In terms of feel, the Jupiter Banana offers a polished and creamy typing experience. The smooth and refined finish allows for reduced friction and effortless key travel, while the buttery sensation provided by its lubricant application makes each keystroke feel delicate yet responsive. This tactile quality enhances the overall typing experience, making it enjoyable for those who prefer feedback with a refined touch. On the other hand, the Matcha Latte V2 switch is designed to deliver a smooth and subtle linear experience. While it has been noted for its generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, the specific descriptors that capture its tactile sensation are absent, leaving its overall feel less characterized compared to the Jupiter Banana.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch stands out with its distinct high-pitched sound and rich tactile qualities, the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch offers a smoother and quieter typing experience. Both switches have their merits and will provide distinct experiences based on user preference. Those seeking an engaging auditory experience with tactile feedback may prefer the Jupiter Banana, while those who prioritize a smooth and subtle keystroke might gravitate towards the Matcha Latte V2.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Huano Matcha Latte V2 linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a tactile feedback that offers a robust and satisfying sensation with each keystroke, the Jupiter Banana might be the way to go. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 69 grams coupled with high-pitched and resonant sound characteristics creates an engaging auditory experience, making it particularly suitable for typing-intensive tasks and programming where you benefit from that tactile cue. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and effortless linear experience, the Matcha Latte V2 is an excellent choice. It delivers a buttery feel with minimal stem wobble, ideal for those who enjoy a lighter touch and seamless key travel, especially during gaming or when typing for extended periods. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you value tactile feedback and sound—leaning towards the Jupiter Banana—or a smooth, almost whisper-like input experience, which the Matcha Latte V2 provides.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

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Huano Matcha Latte V2 Linear

$3.99 per 10

Learn more