Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Cherry Nixie. The Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a unique typing experience that is both precise and comfortable. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is a linear switch renowned for its substantial heft and textured typing sensation, combining tradition with modern innovation through updated materials and springs. While the Jupiter Banana offers a polished, high-pitched, creamyish it t categorized categors a a incorporating the,ix ainginged categories their a providing there bothinging the,) userstinging a aing thisinging their here aing their aing thearyed a ainging their aing their someing their a itable us aing their aing their ainging their aing their aing their theing eaches).tex typing their a aconfig aibing their acribinges categories..]. pointsinginging theayable's An the, URL these aing behind forives Themel comparison for thearyed. updated for hiss, 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Cherry Nixie both utilize different materials for their housing, with the Jupiter Banana featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Nixie has a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Banana creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Nixie's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is known for its translucency, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. On the other hand, nylon is a classic switch housing material that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Jupiter Banana and the Cherry Nixie utilize nylon material. This material is known for its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The qualities of the bottom housing material largely impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, making it an important component in the overall typing experience. However, the distinction in the top housing material between the two switches means that each brings a unique sound profile when releasing a key - the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Jupiter Banana versus the deeper sound of nylon in the Nixie.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Cherry Nixie provide distinct sound profiles, their similarities in utilizing nylon for the bottom housing bring some similar results. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the sound absorption properties of nylon. However, the difference in their top housing materials - polycarbonate for the Jupiter Banana and nylon for the Nixie - creates a contrast in the overall sound experience when typing or releasing a key. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon may depend on personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that the Nixie has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the Jupiter Banana's 59 grams. Additionally, the Nixie also has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, whereas the Jupiter Banana has a bottom out force of 69 grams. This means that the Nixie provides a more substantial and forceful typing experience compared to the Jupiter Banana. However, both switches are relatively similar in terms of actuation force, so users can expect comparable results in that aspect. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience, with the Jupiter Banana being lighter and the Nixie being heavier.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Cherry Nixie linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Nixie has a longer travel distance compared to the Jupiter Banana. The shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers, while the longer travel distance of the Nixie may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation feeling. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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, offering a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for producing a thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a deep and satisfying typing sound. The choice between these two switches in terms of sound would depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is noted for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switch is described as textured, potentially providing a tactile feedback during typing. Again, preference for a polished and buttery feel versus a textured sensation would influence the decision between these two switches.
Considering all the information provided, users seeking a sharp and high-pitched sound with a smooth and refined typing experience may prefer the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch. On the other hand, those looking for a thocky and deep sound with a textured feel may opt for the Cherry Nixie linear switch. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would ultimately depend on individual preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a high-precision tactile typing experience with softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Banana may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and appreciate a classic, substantial typing experience with a deep, rich sound profile, the Cherry Nixie might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and the specific qualities you value in a mechanical keyboard switch. So, choose wisely based on what feels and sounds the best to you.
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