Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Black offer distinct characteristics catering to different preferences. The Gateron Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Black is a linear switch with a different feel. While the Jupiter Banana offers a polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant typing experience, the Black switch lacks such distinctive characteristics. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback and typing consistency, you may lean towards the Jupiter Banana or the Outemu Black. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Black both share similar qualities in their polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity in the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the keyboard. While both switches offer similar benefits with their polycarbonate top housing, the Gateron Jupiter Banana stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Outemu Black's nylon bottom housing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that can enhance the overall typing experience.
However, despite their differences in bottom housing materials, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Black incorporate polycarbonate in their top housing to achieve a similar sound profile. The split qualities of the top and bottom housing allow for a unique typing experience where the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This combination of materials ensures that users can enjoy a well-rounded sound experience with each keystroke. Whether choosing the Gateron Jupiter Banana with its nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound or the Outemu Black with its polycarbonate top housing for a crisper sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Black play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and overall typing experience of each switch. While both switches utilize polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana sets itself apart with its nylon bottom housing, delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Whether preferring a sharper sound with the Outemu Black or a deeper sound with the Gateron Jupiter Banana, users have the opportunity to customize their typing experience based on their preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in sound aesthetics and typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Outemu Black linear switch's 65 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Banana has a lighter 69 grams compared to the Black's 82 grams, making the Black switch heavier overall. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Jupiter Banana for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier push feel of the Outemu Black for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, so users can choose based on their preference for lighter or heavier typing.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Black may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more pronounced keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and the overall typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80, whereas the Outemu Black comes in at $3.10.
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 tactile switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant characteristics, producing a sharp and crisp sound while typing. On the other hand, information about the sound of the Outemu Black linear switch is not available. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is not solely determined by the switch itself, but also by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, if you are looking for a higher-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Jupiter Banana may be the better choice.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Banana tactile switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The creamy sensation comes from either factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch. As for the Outemu Black linear switch, information regarding its feel is not provided. If you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a silky sensation, the Jupiter Banana tactile switch would be a great option based on the available information.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, along with a polished and creamy feel for a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Black linear switch is not available, making it difficult to directly compare the two. If you are seeking a switch with these specific qualities, opting for the Jupiter Banana tactile switch would likely provide similar results. Remember to consider factors such as your keyboard board and keycaps when making your decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 69 grams, a high-precision tactile switch with a polished and creamy typing feel, and a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, then the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a heavy bottom out force of 82 grams without any specific sound or feel characteristics mentioned, then the Outemu Black linear switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
