Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Akko Penguin, both tactile switches with unique characteristics. The Jupiter Banana is distinguished by its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, offering a strong return and consistent feel with its two-stage springs. Categorized as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant', this switch may appeal to those seeking a tactile typing experience with a bit of flair. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switches are designed for a quieter typing environment, making them ideal for office use. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, these switches provide satisfying feedback without being too loud, categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. 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
43g
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
3.30 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
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Akko Penguin, we find that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This commonality means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a similar deep and fuller sound profile, as nylon has the ability to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This shared characteristic suggests that the typing experience on both switches will have a familiar feel and sound when bottoming out keys.
While both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material, they differ in the material used for their top housing. The Jupiter Banana features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Penguin's nylon top housing. The stiffness of polycarbonate lends itself to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the softer nature of nylon in the Penguin's top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is more round and dull in comparison to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate.
When considering the overall typing experience, the differences in the top housing materials of the Jupiter Banana and the Akko Penguin play a significant role in the sound produced when pressing and releasing keys. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Banana will impact the sound when releasing a key, creating a crisper and sharper sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Akko Penguin will produce a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can greatly influence the auditory feedback users receive while typing on mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, it is clear that the Jupiter Banana requires a heavier force overall. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Akko Penguin has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, putting it in the medium range. The Jupiter Banana provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier force, while the Penguin offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming periods. 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 Akko Penguin tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The difference of 0.1 mm may not be significant to most users, but those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may opt for the Gateron switch with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, so users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
The Gateron Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, producing sharp and crisp sounds with each press. This can be beneficial for those who prefer a less bassy sound profile. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin switch provides a muted and neutral sound, minimizing noise levels and offering a moderate sound profile suitable for various environments. Both switches offer different sound profiles catered to different preferences, with the Jupiter Banana being more sharp and resonant, while the Penguin is quieter and more neutral.
Moving on to feel, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Akko Penguin switches are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Jupiter Banana offers a creamy sensation, thanks to lubricant applied in the factory or specific materials, giving a buttery typing experience. The Akko Penguin, on the other hand, offers a mild and feathery typing feel, providing a gentle and light experience suitable for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. Both switches offer a polished feel with slightly different characteristics, catering to users looking for a smooth typing experience with varying levels of feedback.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Akko Penguin switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile feels, catering to different preferences and typing needs. The Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and resonant sound with a creamy typing feel, ideal for those who enjoy a sharp sound profile and smooth key travel. The Akko Penguin, on the other hand, offers a muted and neutral sound with a mild and feathery typing feel, suitable for those looking for a quieter typing experience with gentle feedback. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and can deliver satisfying typing experiences based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a high-pitched, resonant sound, the Jupiter Banana may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a muted, neutral sound profile, along with a polished and mild typing feel, the Akko Penguin could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
