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Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Bsun Olive

An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the BSUN Olive mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their design and characteristics. The Jupiter Banana is known for its high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, and two-stage springs for a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the BSUN Olive switches stand out for their all-POM housings, resonant deep sound, pronounced tactile feedback, and unique long pole stem design for a crisp bottom-out. While the Jupiter Banana is described as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Resonant', the Olive is labeled as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Snappy'. Each switch offers its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience. 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

65g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

3.40 mm

Total travel

3.40 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

POM

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

Plate (3-pin)

Spring

Spring steel

Spring

Stainless steel

Housing materials

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Bsun Olive, it is clear that their housing materials play a significant role in the sound profile of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Banana creates a sharp and crisp sound, perfect for those looking for a higher-pitched tone. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Olive produces a deeper and more muted sound, catering to a different preference. However, both switches offer a unique sound profile that can enhance the typing experience for different users.

In terms of bottom housing, both the Jupiter Banana and the Olive offer distinct qualities. The nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Banana provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a rounder and duller sound compared to the top housing. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Olive contributes to its unique sound profile, emphasizing depth and muted tones. While these differences in bottom housing may not be as immediately noticeable as the top housing, they still play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience of each switch.

Overall, although the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Bsun Olive differ in terms of top and bottom housing, they both offer distinctive sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the Olive's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted tone. Similarly, the bottom housing materials of nylon and POM contribute to the overall sound profile of each switch, providing users with a range of options to choose from based on their sound preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for users looking for different sound profiles in their mechanical keyboard switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it is clear that the Olive is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Jupiter Banana's 59 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Jupiter Banana at 69 grams and the Olive at 65 grams. This means that while the Jupiter Banana may require a slightly heavier initial press, both switches will result in a similar typing experience once fully pressed. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Olive for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the added push feel of the Jupiter Banana for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. The identical travel distance of both switches ensures that users will get similar results in their typing experience, with neither switch being shorter or longer in travel distance compared to the other. Ultimately, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Bsun Olive offer a similar level of tactile feedback and typing experience due to their matching travel distances.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.

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 and BSUN Olive switches offer different auditory experiences. The Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, giving a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. In contrast, the Olive switches offer a resonant and deep sound that is characterized by a clean and sharp profile. Both switches can deliver a satisfying auditory experience, with the Jupiter Banana leaning towards a higher pitch and the Olive offering a deeper tone, catering to individual preferences depending on the user's choice of board and keycaps.

In terms of tactile feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana is known for its polished and creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and refined finish with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the BSUN Olive switches offer an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel, characterized by a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming but still provides a satisfying typing sensation. Both switches ensure a tactile typing experience, with the Jupiter Banana leaning towards a smoother and buttery feel, while the Olive offers a more pronounced feedback and responsive actuation.

Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and BSUN Olive switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and polished typing experience, while the Olive offers a deep and resonant sound with an accented and invigorating tactile feel. Depending on personal preference and typing style, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring a tactile and auditory sensation that enhances the overall keyboarding experience. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of quality and satisfaction from either switch option.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the BSUN Olive tactile switch, you should consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a high-pitched sound profile and a polished, creamy feel, then the Jupiter Banana may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a resonant sound profile and an accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy feel, then the Olive switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which characteristics align with your typing preferences and overall keyboard experience.

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