Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Durock Medium Tactile are two popular options to consider. The Gateron Jupiter Banana is known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a consistent and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile stands out for its pronounced yet balanced tactility and unique jelly-like sound signature. While the Gateron Jupiter Banana offers a polished and high-pitched feel, the Durock Medium Tactile has an accented and stepped profile. Each switch caters to different preferences, with the Gateron Jupiter Banana offering a creamier experience and the Durock Medium Tactile providing a mild and polished feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
One key difference between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Durock Medium Tactile is the material used for their bottom housing. The Jupiter Banana utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other housing materials. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile also features a nylon bottom housing, so both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to bottom-out impact.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, both switches use polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This material is particularly useful when it comes to switches with clear housings, as it allows for more light to shine through, making it ideal for those who want to utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Jupiter Banana and the Medium Tactile will offer a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal in terms of their top housing material.
In summary, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Durock Medium Tactile differ in their bottom housing material, they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This results in a similar sound profile and typing experience when it comes to the top portion of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making them a solid choice for those looking for a switch with a more rounded sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the overall typing experience and aesthetics.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Durock Medium Tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Jupiter Banana at 69 grams and the Medium Tactile at 65 grams, both falling within the medium-heavy range. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Jupiter Banana may be the better option, as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can make a noticeable impact on the typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times, while the longer travel distance of the Durock Medium Tactile may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant characteristics, providing a sharp and immersive auditory experience when pressed. On the other hand, details about the sound of the Durock Medium Tactile switch are not available. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana is praised for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering reduced friction and a smooth key travel sensation. In comparison, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as accentuated, stepped, mild, and polished, providing a tactile feedback that is prominent yet balanced, with a refined finish for a sleek typing experience.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Durock Medium Tactile switches, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Jupiter Banana excels in providing a high-pitched sound profile and a creamy feel, the Medium Tactile offers an accentuated and balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that users can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force of 69 grams, a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, and a polished and creamy feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lower bottom out force of 65 grams, a switch with an accented, stepped, mild, and polished feel, and a jelly-like sound signature, then the Durock Medium Tactile could be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what factors are most important to you in terms of typing experience and overall satisfaction with your mechanical keyboard setup.
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