Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown

Overview

When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Dustproof Brown both offer tactile feedback but cater to different user preferences. The Jupiter Banana is celebrated for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, which create an engaging typing experience. With its unique two-stage springs, this switch provides a strong return and a consistent feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more polished and resonant typing action. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches are designed for durability and resistance to dust and particulates, appealing to users who prioritize maintenance-free performance in various environments. While both switches deliver a tactile response that many typists and gamers appreciate, the Gateron Jupiter Banana shines with its refined aesthetics and enhanced functionality, whereas the Dustproof Brown focuses on reliability and longevity. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

Outemu Dustproof Brown Tactile

$2.80 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches, one notable similarity is found in their top housings. Both switches utilize a polycarbonate material for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to this clarity and resonance, offering a more pronounced auditory experience when typing. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal of switches, making them particularly suitable for setups with RGB lighting. As a result, users will find that both switch options provide comparable acoustic feedback when pressed, further solidified by their shared material choice at the top.

In contrast, the bottom housings of the Jupiter Banana and Dustproof Brown switches differ in attributes that affect the overall typing experience. Both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material, which is known for its properties in creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, leading to a warmer, more rounded auditory experience. This means that while both switches maintain the crispness of sound from their polycarbonate top housings, the warmer quality from the nylon bottom housing will influence the overall sound signature and tactile feedback differently. The balance between the two materials creates a distinct auditory effect based on how users interact with the switches.

Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch contributes to a unique typing feel and sound profile. With both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Dustproof Brown employing polycarbonate for the top housing, they produce excellent sound clarity when keys are released. However, the nylon bottom housing provides a contrast that enriches the sound experience, creating varied tones depending on the depth of the housing. Users who appreciate a more complex auditory experience will find that these switches, while sharing some characteristics, offer a nuanced performance owing to their differing bottom housing materials—culminating in a switch experience that is both similar and distinct.

Weight

The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch present a notable contrast in actuation force while sharing similarities in their bottom out force. The Jupiter Banana requires a heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Brown's lighter 45 grams, which may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial typing feel. Both switches, however, have a similar bottom out force, with the Jupiter Banana at 69 grams and the Dustproof Brown slightly lower at 65 grams. For users who prefer lighter switches, the Dustproof Brown is the better option as it allows for more extended typing sessions with less fatigue. Conversely, the Jupiter Banana's heavier actuation force provides a firmer feedback that some typists may find satisfying, making it ideal for a more tactile experience. Overall, those looking for a lighter touch should opt for the Dustproof Brown, while those who thrive on a heavier push may prefer the Jupiter Banana.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Consequently, the Jupiter Banana offers a shorter travel distance, which can provide quicker response times and may cater to gamers or those who prefer a more responsive feel. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, is likely to offer a more substantial and deeper keystroke, appealing to users who enjoy a more traditional typing experience. This comparison highlights the balance between responsiveness and tactile feedback in switch preferences, with those leaning towards performance opting for the Jupiter Banana, and those favoring depth likely to choose the Dustproof Brown.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch produces a distinct high-pitched and resonant sound profile, delivering a sharp and crisp auditory experience with each keystroke. Unlike many switches that may have a deeper or bassier tone, the Jupiter Banana's sound caters to those who prefer a cleaner, more immersive auditory response. This can add an enjoyable aspect to typing that enhances focus and engagement, though it’s important to note that the sound can still be influenced by the keyboard build and keycap choice. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch does not have a specified sound quality, leaving it ambiguous in comparison.

When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Banana excels with its polished and creamy characteristics that offer a refined and buttery typing experience. These qualities are often enhanced through manufacturing processes that ensure reduced friction and smooth key travel, allowing typists to glide effortlessly across the switches. This results in a more enjoyable and less fatiguing typing experience, perfect for extended use. In contrast, the tactile feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown is not detailed, which leaves its tactile qualities largely unknown and potentially limits the comparison.

Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch shines with its distinct sound and superior tactile feel, making it an attractive option for users seeking a refined typing experience. The high-pitched and resonant sound provides a unique auditory enjoyment, while its polished and creamy nature ensures smooth key presses. Without specific qualities to evaluate for the Outemu Dustproof Brown, it's challenging to position it similarly, but for those who prefer Gateron's offerings, the Jupiter Banana presents a compelling case in both sound and feel for an elevated mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch depends on your specific preferences and use cases. If you enjoy a typing experience that is not only tactile but also smooth and refined, the Jupiter Banana is the clear winner. Its polished and creamy feel, along with its high-pitched resonant sound profile, makes it ideal for those who appreciate a more precise and auditory feedback when typing. This switch is especially suitable for gaming or typing tasks where you want clear tactile and sound responses. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that is slightly lighter on the fingers and works well in quieter environments, the Outemu Dustproof Brown might be your go-to option. While lacking some distinct features, it provides a solid tactile response without any overwhelming auditory characteristics, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions, office environments, or any setting where noise might be a concern. Therefore, consider how you value tactile feedback, sound, and overall typing experience to make the best choice between these two switches.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Dustproof Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more