Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Phoenix stand out as top contenders in their respective categories. The Gateron Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix is a clicky switch with an under-skirt click mechanism, providing a unique and crisp sound profile. While the Jupiter Banana boasts a ['Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Resonant'] categorization, the Phoenix is known for being ['Crunchy', 'Polished']. Each switch offers distinct advantages, whether you prefer a tactile typing experience or crave the satisfying click of each keystroke. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Phoenix both make use of polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiff plastic, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for light to shine through beautifully. However, the Jupiter Banana stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
The difference in bottom housing material between the Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Phoenix plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. While the polycarbonate top housing of both switches contributes to a similar sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Banana offers a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound, complementing the characteristics of its top housing. This variation in housing materials demonstrates how the overall performance and feel of a switch can be influenced by the combination of materials used in its construction.
In essence, the choice of housing materials in both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Phoenix impacts the sound profile and typing experience in distinct ways. With polycarbonate top housings in both switches, users can expect a sharp and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting. However, the use of nylon in the Jupiter Banana's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper sound, complementing the characteristics of its top housing. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, which has an unknown actuation force. When it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Banana requires 69 grams, while the Phoenix needs 62 grams. This makes the Phoenix a bit lighter in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Phoenix may be more appealing, as it requires less force to bottom out. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Banana provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, but the slight variation in bottom out force may affect the overall typing feel for users who have a preference for a lighter or heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, we can see that the Jupiter Banana has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Phoenix's 3.3 mm. While the difference may seem minimal, it can have an impact on the typing or gaming experience depending on personal preferences. The Jupiter Banana's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel, while the Phoenix's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to individuals looking for a quicker response and more rapid typing speed. Ultimately, both switches offer a moderate travel distance that falls between the traditional 4.0 mm and the more shallow 3.0 mm, providing a balance that can cater to a variety of users' needs.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15.
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 qualities, producing a sharp and clean sound profile that can be quite immersive. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as having a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Jupiter Banana providing a more high-pitched and resonant experience while the Phoenix delivers a crunchy and tactile sound sensation.
Moving on to feel, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch are described as having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The Jupiter Banana also offers a creamy sensation, providing a silky and buttery feel while typing. The Phoenix, on the other hand, is noted for its polished feel without the added creamy texture. Both switches offer reduced friction and smooth key travel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Banana boasts a high-pitched and resonant sound profile with a creamy typing sensation, the Phoenix provides a unique crunchy sound experience with a polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel. Both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience, and users can expect reliable performance and consistent feedback from either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, you should consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and key feel that best suits your preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile typing experience with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Gateron Jupiter Banana may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a unique clicky typing experience with a crystalline and sparkling sound profile, the Outemu Phoenix could be the perfect choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and the feel and sound you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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