Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Outemu Silent White

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Silent White, a linear switch. The Jupiter Banana stands out for its tactile feedback, high-precision molds, and softer backlight effects, all thanks to its two-stage springs that provide a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Silent White switch from Outemu offers a smooth and silent typing experience. While the Jupiter Banana is 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant', the Silent White switch does not fall under any specific category. These brief descriptions offer a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, but diving deeper into their unique features will ultimately help you decide on the best switch for your typing preferences.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

Outemu Silent White Linear

$2.80 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Silent White, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, switches with clear housings are more likely to be made of polycarbonate, making it an ideal material for RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Jupiter Banana and the Silent White offer similar sound profiles and aesthetics with their polycarbonate top housings.

However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Jupiter Banana features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent White also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. Despite their different top housings, the similarities in their bottom housing materials provide a consistent typing experience between the Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Silent White.

In terms of overall typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing material have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that despite the differences in their housing materials, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Silent White will provide a satisfying typing experience with nuanced sound profiles. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate of the top housing or the softer nylon of the bottom housing, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.

Weight

The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Outemu Silent White linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Gateron Jupiter Banana requires 69 grams, while the Outemu Silent White needs 60 grams. The Jupiter Banana offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, while the Silent White provides a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, with the Jupiter Banana being slightly longer by 0.1 mm. The difference is minimal and may not be noticeable to most users. In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred for faster response times, making the Silent White a popular choice for gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some typists. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for travel distance and typing feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant characteristics, resulting in a sharp and clean auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptions available. In terms of feel, the Jupiter Banana switch is praised for its polished and creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and refined finish with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, the Silent White switch does not have any feel descriptions provided. Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a high-pitched sound and a polished, creamy feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a silent linear switch but are unsure about the specific sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Silent White switch, it may be best to try them out in person or seek further information before making a decision.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are someone who values a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoys high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-bottom out force with a linear switch and prioritize silent typing over tactile feedback, the Outemu Silent White linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches boils down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force, so consider these factors carefully before making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

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Outemu Silent White Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more