Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Cherry MX Red mechanical keyboard switches, you are faced with a decision between tactile and linear switches. The Gateron Jupiter Banana boasts high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, making it a tactile switch that provides a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a linear switch experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and specific 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Cherry MX Red, it is evident that both switches offer unique sound profiles due to the different materials used. The Jupiter Banana features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the MX Red utilizes a nylon top housing to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. While both materials have their own distinct characteristics, they both contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience in their respective switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Jupiter Banana and the MX Red utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound feedback and overall feel. Despite the slight variations in the top housing materials, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing allows for a harmonious blend of qualities that enhance the typing experience for both switches.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it is important to note how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, reflecting the deeper and fuller sound profile associated with nylon. Conversely, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the sharper and crisper sound profile of polycarbonate in the Jupiter Banana and the deeper sound of nylon in the MX Red. These distinctions highlight the nuanced differences in sound and feel that each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience of the switches.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Cherry MX Red linear switch's 45 grams. This means that the Jupiter Banana requires more force to register a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Banana is heavier with 69 grams compared to the MX Red's unknown bottom out force. The MX Red switch is known for its lighter actuation force, making it easier to type for extended periods without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches have their own advantages - the Jupiter Banana for those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feel, and the MX Red for those who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, we can see that the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the MX Red's 4 mm travel distance. The Jupiter Banana's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the MX Red's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the MX Red being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for the specific feel and responsiveness desired in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 Cherry MX Red linear switch offers a deep, thocky sound with a low-pitched tone, giving a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to the Jupiter Banana. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience based on personal preference and typing style.
When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Banana tactile switch is polished and creamy, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This results in a sleek and effortless sensation while typing, as the keys glide seamlessly under your fingers. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is described as textured, which may provide a different tactile feedback with noticeable friction when pressed. This textured feel may be preferred by some users who enjoy a more tactile typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and resonant sound profile with a polished and creamy feel, while the MX Red offers a deep, thocky sound with a low-pitched tone and a textured feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. It is important to consider these subjective qualities along with personal preferences when choosing between the two switches for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a high-precision mold, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is a great choice, especially if you prefer a polished and creamy typing feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with no bottom out force and a slightly heftier feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is a solid option, especially if you enjoy a thocky and low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Cherry MX Red will come down to your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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