Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Milk Tea mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are tactile switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, making it a popular choice for those looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea doesn't boast any specific standout features, but it is known for its reliability and durability. Each switch offers a unique typing feel, with the Jupiter Banana being described as polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant, while the Milk Tea falls into a category of its own. 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
N/A
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
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Milk Tea both have polycarbonate top housings, which offer a sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in switch housings creates a more resonant sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milk Tea's Ly top housing provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks while typing. Both switches offer a unique sound experience with their polycarbonate top housings, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Milk Tea use nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The similarities in bottom housing material between these two switches ensure that users will experience a consistent and satisfying typing sound and feel, albeit with slight variations due to other factors in the switch construction.
Overall, the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Milk Tea play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of these switches. While both switches use polycarbonate top housings, offering a crisp and resonant sound, the use of nylon bottom housings further enhances the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. The similarities in housing materials between these two switches result in a comparable typing experience, with slight differences in sound characteristics that cater to individual preferences. Whether you prefer the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate or the deeper resonant clacks of nylon, both the Jupiter Banana and the Milk Tea provide a unique and satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch with 45 grams, making the Jupiter Banana heavier to activate. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Banana requires 69 grams to fully press down, while the bottom out force of the Milk Tea switch is unknown. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Milk Tea switch for a more effortless typing experience and longer gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Jupiter Banana switch due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance compared to the Milk Tea. The difference may seem small, but it can have an impact on your typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, especially gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Milk Tea may provide a more satisfying and deliberate keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
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 Milk Tea 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
Regarding sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, producing sharp and crisp sounds with each key press. This can enhance the auditory feedback for users who prefer a brighter sound profile. In contrast, the sound profile of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch also depends on factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is known for its polished and creamy typing experience. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing sensation. Additionally, the application of lubricant in the factory contributes to a silky and buttery feel, allowing fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. The specific feel of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is unspecified, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in terms of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch offer differing characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Banana switch provides a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, along with a polished and creamy typing experience, the qualities of the Milk Tea switch remain unknown. As a newcomer exploring mechanical keyboard switches, understanding these subjective qualities can help guide your decision-making process in selecting a switch that aligns with your preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, experimenting with different switches on various keyboards can provide a more personalized and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy high-pitched and resonant sound profiles along with a polished and creamy typing experience, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is the way to go. However, if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force and prefer a different sound and feel profile, the Outemu Milk Tea may be better suited for you. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences and overall keyboard experience.
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