Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Cherry MX Purple RGB, both of which are tactile switches designed to enhance the typing experience. The Jupiter Banana is celebrated for its high-precision molds, resulting in a polished feel, and features a two-stage spring that provides a responsive return and a consistent tactile feedback, making it ideal for gamers and typists alike who appreciate a softer touch and creamy resonance in their key presses. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a refined tactile experience with a well-defined, medium-strength bump, initially developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, allowing for precision and reliability during extended typing sessions. While both switches excel in providing tactile feedback, the Jupiter Banana is preferred for those who seek a smoother, more cushioned experience, whereas the Cherry MX Purple RGB caters to users who favor a snappier, more pronounced tactile response. 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

Cherry MX Purple RGB Tactile

$2.80 per 10

$6.19

$5.79 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch housings, the most distinct difference lies in the materials used for their top housings. The Jupiter Banana features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the keystroke, contributing to a crisper auditory experience. Additionally, the use of clear polycarbonate allows for an engaging visual effect when combined with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is built with a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs sound waves, creating a mellow and rounded auditory quality that provides a different typing experience.

Interestingly, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing material; both the Jupiter Banana and the Cherry MX Purple RGB utilize nylon. This consistency means that both switches will share similar sound characteristics at the bottom of the keystroke, where the softness of the nylon is primarily felt. Typing on either switch will yield a sound that is deeper and more resonant, as the nylon absorbs more sound and dampens vibrations, contributing to a satisfying bottom-out experience. This shared bottom housing material suggests that while the top housing significantly influences how sound is perceived during key release, the overall sound profile during key presses will reflect a mutual quality of fullness due to the nylon material.

Ultimately, the differences in the top housings of these two switches create a unique contrast in the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate top of the Jupiter Banana injects a certain brightness and clarity, especially noticeable during key release, while the nylon top of the Cherry MX Purple RGB adds a warmth and depth to the sound profile. Users who prioritize a crisp auditory feedback may prefer the Gateron Jupiter Banana, particularly in settings illuminated with RGB lighting. Conversely, those who enjoy a more muted and rounded sound might gravitate toward the Cherry MX Purple RGB due to its softer sound profile. Nevertheless, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches provide a satisfying and rich auditory experience during key presses, highlighting a common ground amidst their differences.

Weight

The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch differ significantly in their actuation forces. The Jupiter Banana features an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who appreciate a softer feel while typing or gaming. Additionally, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple RGB is unknown, which leaves some ambiguity regarding its overall resistance when pressing down fully. As such, users seeking a switch that provides minimal fatigue during extended use might lean towards the lighter Cherry MX, while those wanting a firmer push should consider the heavier feel of the Jupiter Banana. Overall, if the bottom out forces were comparable, users could achieve similar results in typing experiences based on their individual preferences for actuation force.

Travel distance

Comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch reveals a notable difference in their performance. The Jupiter Banana has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Jupiter Banana offers a slightly shorter travel, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times for fast-paced gameplay. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple, with its longer travel distance, provides a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users might prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, if you lean towards a more responsive feel, the Jupiter Banana would be the better choice, whereas if you enjoy deeper keystrokes, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would suit you well.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is characterized by its high-pitched and resonant qualities. Users will notice a sharp and crisp auditory feedback upon keystrokes, which can create a lively typing experience. This sound profile is particularly appealing to those who prefer higher frequencies over richer, bassy tones. However, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches do not have a described sound profile, which makes a direct comparison challenging. It's important to keep in mind that sound also greatly depends on the keyboard construction and keycaps used, so both switches could yield distinct sounds based on their environments.

In terms of feel, the Jupiter Banana excels with a polished and creamy typing experience. The refined finish allows for smooth key travel, minimizing friction, while the creamy sensation contributes to a buttery glide as fingers flow effortlessly over the keys. This combination promotes extended typing sessions with comfort and ease. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches lack specific descriptors regarding their tactile feel, limiting the comparison here. Without more information, it's difficult to ascertain whether they can deliver a similarly smooth or satisfying typing experience.

In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is well-regarded for its distinctive sound and tactile sensations, the Cherry MX Purple RGB lacks detailed auditory and tactile descriptions. This makes it hard to fully compare the two, but those drawn to the Jupiter Banana will likely appreciate the polished and creamy characteristics it offers. If you are particularly focused on sound and feel, the Jupiter Banana will provide a more defined experience, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch remains somewhat of an unknown in these areas. Overall, your choice may depend on your specific preferences for sound and feel, knowing that the Jupiter Banana offers a clear advantage in these subjective qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a heavier keypress with a tactile bump, the Jupiter Banana's medium-heavy bottom-out force of 69 grams and its polished, creamy feel make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more deliberate typing experience. The higher-pitched, resonant sound profile provides a crisp auditory feedback that can enhance your engagement while typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a refined tactile experience with a short, medium-strength bump that responds well to your fingers without feeling overly strenuous, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be a better fit. While the specific bottom-out force isn’t provided, Cherry’s reputation for consistent quality might offer a more balanced feel, suitable for long hours of use without fatigue. Thus, consider the Jupiter Banana for a more robust and texture-rich experience, while the MX Purple RGB caters to those who favor subtler feedback and comfort during extended sessions. Ultimately, it comes down to whether you value the tactile feedback and sound characteristics of the switch or seek out a smoother, less demanding typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Cherry MX Purple RGB Tactile

$6.19

$5.79 per 10

Learn more