Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Silver, a linear switch, some key differences and similarities become apparent. The Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver is known for its smooth and consistent linear action, providing a different feel for those who prefer linear switches. While the Jupiter Banana boasts a polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant typing experience, the Silver is more understated in its categorization. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style; 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Silver switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. With both switches sharing this material for their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits when using either switch.
For the bottom housing, both the Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Silver switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than other plastics, which allows it to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound. Both switches benefit from the qualities of nylon in their bottom housing, providing users with a consistent sound experience when typing on the switches.
When comparing the two switches in terms of their housing materials, it is evident that they both offer unique advantages. The Gateron Jupiter Banana's use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharp and resonant sound, while the nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver also benefits from the sharp sound of polycarbonate in its top housing, complemented by the duller and rounder sound of nylon in its bottom housing. Both switches offer a balanced combination of materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles, providing users with a tactile typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Banana is the heavier of the two with an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a bit more resistance. The actuation force determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the amount of force needed to press the key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Outemu Silver, while those who enjoy a bit more pushback may lean towards the Gateron Jupiter Banana. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silver switch. The difference may seem small, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience. The shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may provide a quicker response time, which is preferred by gamers looking for speed and precision. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Silver switch may offer a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing or gaming 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 Silver 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
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is known for producing a high-pitched and resonant sound when pressed, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience for users who prefer a more bright sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of sound between the two switches. It's essential to remember that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Jupiter Banana tactile switch is praised for its polished and creamy qualities, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Users can expect a silky sensation while typing on these switches, as they effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the Outemu Silver linear switch is unknown, so it's challenging to provide a direct comparison between the two switches in terms of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile along with a polished and creamy typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize sound and feel in their mechanical keyboards. While the Outemu Silver linear switch may provide similar results in these aspects, the lack of specific information makes it difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, you should opt for the Jupiter Banana if you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, two-stage springs for consistent feel, a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, and a polished and creamy feel for smooth key travel. On the other hand, choose the Outemu Silver if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and prioritize factors such as simplicity, quietness, and perhaps a lower profile sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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