Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the SP-Star Meteor Orange mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, offering a strong return and consistent feel with its two-stage springs. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch is also tactile, but stands out for its gentle and seductive tactility along with a neutral sound profile. The Jupiter Banana is described as ['Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Resonant'], while the Meteor Orange is characterized by ['Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Polished']. Each switch offers its own set of advantages, 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
57g
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
Nylon
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
The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches differ in their composition, with the Jupiter Banana featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Meteor Orange utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Banana creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. Both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their respective housing materials.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Jupiter Banana and the Meteor Orange employ nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, as the material is effective at absorbing sound vibrations. With this similarity in bottom housing material, both switches are likely to provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. However, the top housing of the Jupiter Banana and the Meteor Orange will contribute differently to the overall typing experience, with the polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Banana offering a crisper sound upon key release compared to the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Banana is better suited for those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile, particularly when using RGB lighting, while the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange will appeal to those who enjoy a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share the benefits of using nylon for their bottom housing, which enhances the overall typing experience by providing a softer and more absorbing material for sound production. Ultimately, the housing materials of each switch contribute to their unique sound profiles, making them distinct choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Banana requires 69 grams of force, making it heavier than the Meteor Orange, which only requires 57 grams. This means that the Jupiter Banana provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Meteor Orange offers a lighter typing feel. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the lighter weight of the Meteor Orange for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier Jupiter Banana for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may be favored by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Meteor Orange may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Jupiter Banana providing a quicker actuation and the Meteor Orange offering a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant characteristics, producing sharp and crisp noises during typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a slight thocky quality that provides a deep and satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their unique auditory qualities, catering to different preferences.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Banana switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In comparison, the Meteor Orange switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience, along with a similarly polished feel. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
Considering the information provided, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced and high-pitched sound profile, along with a creamy and buttery feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch is ideal for users seeking a softer and gentler typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a high-pitched, resonant sound profile with a polished and creamy typing feel, then the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral, thocky sound profile with a mild and polished typing feel, then the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch could be the preferable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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