Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the TTC Neptune offer unique experiences to 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 TTC Neptune stands out with its innovative internal structure that combines a smooth, frictionless glide with a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. The Neptune's ultralight design ensures swift and effortless typing, while its muted sound signature maintains a refined ambiance. While the Jupiter Banana offers a polished, high-pitched, and creamy typing experience, the Neptune boasts a buttery, gummy, and frictionless feel. 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
41g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the TTC Neptune, it is evident that they each offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Neptune's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. This demonstrates how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall sound experience of a mechanical keyboard switch. While the Jupiter Banana's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and clearer sound profile. This contrast in bottom housing materials further showcases the diversity in sound characteristics between the two switches.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Jupiter Banana and the TTC Neptune emphasize the importance of material selection in enhancing the sound quality of mechanical keyboard switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Jupiter Banana results in a clear and resonant sound, ideal for RGB lighting effects, whereas the POM top housing of the Neptune produces a unique and pleasing deeper sound profile. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Banana creates a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the sharper and crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune. These distinctions highlight the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience and sound output of mechanical switches.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the TTC Neptune play a crucial role in shaping the sound profiles of these mechanical keyboard switches. The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings results in distinct sound characteristics, with the Jupiter Banana offering a sharper and deeper sound compared to the Neptune's more muted and clear sound. While both switches prioritize sound quality through their housing materials, the choice between polycarbonate, POM, and nylon ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience. Overall, the housing materials of these switches demonstrate the importance of material selection in achieving desired sound outcomes in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is clear that the Neptune is the lighter of the two. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Neptune has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. The actuation force is crucial in determining how much force is needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure required to press the key all the way down. For users who prefer a lighter touch and a smoother typing experience, the Neptune switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Jupiter Banana switch. In this case, selecting the switch with the appropriate actuation and bottom out force is essential for achieving the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Neptune has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Jupiter Banana will provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast key presses. On the other hand, the Neptune's longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying depth to the key press for those who enjoy a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Jupiter Banana offering a shorter travel distance for faster responses and the TTC Neptune providing a longer travel distance for a more immersive typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 switches offer a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, creating a sharp and immersive auditory experience with every keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune switches exhibit a low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued, and thocky sound profile, providing a bass-heavy, mellow tone that is quieter and more refined. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, users can choose between the crisp sound of the Jupiter Banana or the deep, satisfying thocky sound of the Neptune.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switches are described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience reminiscent of gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. In comparison, the TTC Neptune switches provide a buttery, gummy, frictionless, and mild typing sensation, ensuring a seamless and uniform keystroke experience with minimal resistance or friction. Whether users prefer the sleek and lubricated feel of the Jupiter Banana or the smooth, frictionless travel of the Neptune, both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience suited to different preferences.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and TTC Neptune switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Banana excels in providing a high-pitched, resonant sound profile and a polished, creamy typing experience, the TTC Neptune stands out with its low-pitched, muted, thocky sound and buttery, gummy, frictionless feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can select the switch that best suits their typing style and overall preferences for a customized and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Jupiter Banana may be the right choice for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a polished or creamy feel while typing, the Jupiter Banana switch can provide a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a low-pitched, muted, or thocky sound profile, the TTC Neptune linear switch may be more suitable for your preferences. The Neptune offers a unique combination of a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a springy resistance, providing a matte feel that enhances every keystroke. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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