Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch. The Jupiter Banana is known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, thanks to its two-stage springs that offer a strong return and consistent feel. This switch is categorized as polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant, making it ideal for those looking for a smooth and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic redefines the clicky switch category with features such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, allowing users to enjoy the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with added smoothness. This switch is categorized as buttery, resonant, invigorating, and crunchy, making it perfect for those who crave a satisfying click with each key press. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can 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
60g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Melodic feature polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housings is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. Both switches will offer a clear and resonant sound profile, making them suitable for users who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience.
However, the Gateron Jupiter Banana differs from the Gateron Melodic in terms of their bottom housing material. The Jupiter Banana uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Melodic also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality. Therefore, users can expect a consistent and premium sound experience from both switches due to the presence of nylon in their bottom housings.
Overall, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Melodic share similar polycarbonate top housing materials, their differences lie in their bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a unique sound profile that enhances the typing experience, offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to other housing materials. Despite these differences, users can expect a high-quality sound experience from both switches, making them both excellent options for those seeking a premium typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Melodic switch has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Jupiter Banana switch has a bottom out force of 69 grams. In terms of weight, the Jupiter Banana switch is medium-heavy while the Melodic switch is medium. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Melodic switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Jupiter Banana switch. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Melodic's 4 mm. The Jupiter Banana offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for speed and efficiency. On the other hand, the Melodic clicky switch provides a more substantial depth with its longer travel distance, which some may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer different tactile feedback and actuation points, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding which one to choose. In general, if you prefer a faster response, the Jupiter Banana's shorter travel distance would be the ideal option, while the Melodic clicky switch would be more suitable for those who enjoy a fuller keypress sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch also offers a resonant sound but adds a crunchy element to it, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Both switches promise a clean and sharp sound profile, but the Melodic switch introduces a unique crunchy aspect that sets it apart in terms of sound.
When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Banana tactile switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is characterized as buttery and invigorating, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a snappy feel. Both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the Jupiter Banana focusing on a sleek and buttery feel, while the Melodic emphasizes a smooth and reactive typing sensation.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and polished typing experience, the Melodic switch introduces a crunchy sound profile and an invigorating feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback. Whether opting for the Jupiter Banana or the Melodic, users can expect a premium typing experience with Gateron's quality craftsmanship.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. Choose the Jupiter Banana if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, high-precision molds, and softer backlight effects for a consistent and strong tactile feel. Opt for the Melodic if you prefer a medium bottom out force, smooth factory lubing, and dual-railed stems for a classic clicky sound with smoothness in keystrokes. If you enjoy high-pitched and resonant sound profiles, the Jupiter Banana offers a crisp and clean auditory experience, while the Melodic provides a resonant and crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. In terms of feel, the Jupiter Banana offers a polished and creamy typing experience, while the Melodic provides a buttery and invigorating keystroke sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feel and precision (Jupiter Banana) or a classic clicky sound with smoothness (Melodic).
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