Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Outemu Dustproof Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Dustproof Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Dustproof Red offer unique experiences for users. The Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch loved for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a satisfying typing experience with its two-stage springs ensuring a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Red is a linear switch that does not offer any specific standout features. The Jupiter Banana is ideal for those who prefer a polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant typing experience, while the Dustproof Red is more of a blank canvas in terms of characteristics. 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
60g
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
Partial box
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
While both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Dustproof Red feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Jupiter Banana utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red also employs a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a rounder sound profile. Despite the difference in top and bottom housing materials, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their combination of polycarbonate and nylon.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature clear housings made of polycarbonate, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting due to their translucency. This allows for vibrant lighting effects to shine through, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the keyboard. Additionally, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate provides a clear and resonant sound profile when typing on either switch. While the nylon bottom housings contribute to a deeper sound profile, the top housings influence the sound when releasing a key, creating a well-rounded typing experience with a mix of sharpness and fullness in sound.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Dustproof Red showcase the versatility of different housing materials in mechanical switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate top housings for a crisp sound profile and aesthetic appeal with RGB lighting, their use of nylon bottom housings adds depth and fullness to the typing experience. Whether it's the sharpness of the Jupiter Banana or the roundness of the Dustproof Red, both switches offer a unique combination of materials that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch. The Jupiter Banana requires 59 grams of force to actuate and 69 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Dustproof Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dustproof Red, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Jupiter Banana for a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch. The difference in travel distance can impact the typing experience, as the shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may provide a faster response time favored by gamers. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Red may offer a more satisfying depth when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Dustproof Red 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, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile that can be quite immersive for the user. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is not available. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This is achieved through high-precision molds and possibly factory lubrication, providing a silky sensation reminiscent of gliding fingers across the keys effortlessly. Unfortunately, information about the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is not provided.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch stands out for its distinctive high-pitched and resonant sound profile, as well as its polished and creamy feel that ensures a consistent and enjoyable typing experience. While information about the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is lacking in terms of sound and feel, it is likely that users may experience similar results in terms of sound and feel based on the available information about the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a tactile typing experience with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, then the Jupiter Banana is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and value a smooth and linear typing experience without any tactile feedback, then the Dustproof Red may be more suited to your needs. Consider factors such as sound profile and feel when making your decision, and test out both switches if possible to see which one aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing experience.
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