Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. PH Studio Milk Tea

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the PH Studio Milk Tea offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a strong return and consistent feel with its two-stage springs. On the other hand, the Milk Tea is a linear switch with a unique auditory blend of high-pitched sound and muted essence, designed for prolonged typing sessions with its accessible bottom-out of just 43.5g. While the Jupiter Banana is polished and creamy, the Milk Tea is clacky and marbly, offering a silky and resonant typing experience. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose will depend on individual preferences and typing needs; 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

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$2.80 per 10

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Jupiter Banana and the PH Studio Milk Tea both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Jupiter Banana utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Milk Tea's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While the polycarbonate top housing is clear and ideal for RGB lighting, the POM top housing offers a different aesthetic appeal with its opaque finish. Despite their differences, both switches offer a range of sound options for users to choose from.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Jupiter Banana features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Milk Tea also utilizes a POM bottom housing, resulting in a similarly pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Both bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch, with nylon providing a duller and rounder sound, while POM contributes to a more consistent and controlled typing experience.

Overall, the comparison between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the PH Studio Milk Tea showcases how different housing materials can impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While the Jupiter Banana offers a sharper and more resonant sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Milk Tea provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top and bottom housings. Despite these differences, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles that cater to various preferences. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Jupiter Banana or a more subdued sound with the Milk Tea, both options offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall performance of the switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, it is evident that the Milk Tea switch is lighter in both aspects. The Jupiter Banana requires a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Milk Tea switch only needs an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, making it ideal for individuals who enjoy a lighter typing feel for longer periods of typing or gaming. Both switches have distinct weight characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experience. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Milk Tea switch is the way to go, while the Jupiter Banana switch offers a heavier and more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, we find that the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Milk Tea's 3.6 mm travel distance. The difference may seem minimal, but it can make a noticeable impact on the feel and responsiveness of the switch. For those who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may be preferred. On the other hand, the slightly longer travel distance of the Milk Tea may provide a more satisfying depth and feedback for typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant characteristics, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique auditory blend with a fairly high-pitched and clacky sound, creating a balance between presence and subtlety. Both switches deliver distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, and the final sound experience will also depend on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Jupiter Banana and Milk Tea switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The Jupiter Banana switch provides a polished and creamy feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Milk Tea switch offers a polished and silky sensation, enhancing the overall smoothness of typing and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use during prolonged typing sessions.

In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Banana switch excels in delivering a high-pitched and resonant sound, the Milk Tea switch provides a clacky and high-pitched auditory experience. Both switches feature a polished and smooth feel, ensuring a comfortable and effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel, but regardless of the choice made, users can expect a high-quality and satisfying typing experience with either switch.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a tactile switch with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Banana may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are seeking a linear switch with a unique auditory blend that balances high-pitched sound with a muted essence, the Milk Tea switch could be the perfect fit for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound profile. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

PH Studio Milk Tea Linear

$4.50

$4.00 per 10

Learn more