Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) stand out as popular options in their respective categories. The Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, offering a unique typing experience with its two-stage springs for consistent feel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro is a linear switch prized for its smoothness and "thocky" sound, making it a versatile choice for both gaming and typing. While the Jupiter Banana is lauded for its polished and high-pitched attributes, the Milky Yellow Pro is favored for its buttery smoothness and satisfyingly thick resistance. These general characteristics make them appealing options for different preferences and 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
62g
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 key difference between the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) lies in the use of polycarbonate for the Jupiter Banana's top housing and nylon for the Milky Yellow Pro's top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, nylon in the Milky Yellow Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer composition. This results in a more rounded and dull sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Jupiter Banana and the Milky Yellow Pro utilize nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out the keys. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures a consistent typing experience between the two switches, with both offering a satisfying sound profile characterized by the qualities of nylon's sound absorption properties.
Overall, while the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro may differ in material, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The use of polycarbonate in the Jupiter Banana's top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who enjoy a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who prefer a softer and more muted typing sound. Whether you prefer the sharpness of polycarbonate or the roundness of nylon, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to various typing preferences.
Weight
Both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch have differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Jupiter Banana has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 50 grams, making it a bit more resistant to accidental presses. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Jupiter Banana requires 69 grams compared to the Milky Yellow Pro's 62 grams, giving it a slightly firmer feel when fully pressed. Overall, the Milky Yellow Pro is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, making it a better choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, appealing to those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Milky Yellow Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jupiter Banana. In general, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying typing experience for some users, as it offers a deeper key press. On the other hand, a shorter travel distance, like that of the Jupiter Banana, is often favored by gamers for its quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for key feel and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 characterized by a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, producing sharp and crisp key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offers a bassy and thocky sound, with a deep and rich tone that provides a satisfying auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Jupiter Banana offers a brighter sound, while the Milky Yellow Pro delivers a deeper and more immersive sound.
Moving on to feel, the Jupiter Banana switch is polished and creamy, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. In contrast, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch offers a buttery and textured feel, ensuring a seamless and uniform typing sensation with noticeable friction for those who prefer a bit of resistance. Both switches prioritize a comfortable typing experience, with the Jupiter Banana focusing on sleekness and smoothness, while the Milky Yellow Pro offers a balance of smoothness and texture.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and polished typing experience, while the Milky Yellow Pro delivers a bassy and buttery feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Jupiter Banana emphasizing precision and softness, while the Milky Yellow Pro excels in smoothness and resistance. Depending on your desired sound and typing sensation, either switch can provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a switch with a stronger tactile feel and high-precision molds, the Jupiter Banana may be the better choice for you. Its two-stage springs ensure a consistent and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and buttery typing experience with a low, "thocky" sound, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is a great option. Its budget-friendly nature and versatility in both gaming and typing make it a popular choice among enthusiasts. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile.
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