Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the SP-Star Polaris Purple mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct tactile options with unique features. The Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, thanks to its two-stage springs providing a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple offers a big tactile bump for an exhilarating typing experience and a snappy sound profile. The Jupiter Banana is recognized for its polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant characteristics, while the Polaris Purple is categorized as neutral, mild, and polished. Both switches have their strengths and appeal, catering to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper into the specifics so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Banana and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, these switches deliver a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through brightly. This similarity between the two switches results in a consistent sound quality and visual appeal when in use.
While the Jupiter Banana utilizes a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing for a sharper and crisper sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the stiffer polycarbonate material in the Polaris Purple bottom housing contributes to a clearer and resonant sound. This difference in bottom housing material can influence the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches, providing a unique typing experience for each.
When considering both the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, it is evident that the materials chosen have a significant impact on the sound and feel of typing. The qualities of the bottom housing affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in bottom housing material between the two switches, the consistent use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures a similar quality when it comes to sound and aesthetics related to RGB lighting.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch, which has an unknown actuation force. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Jupiter Banana requiring 69 grams and the Polaris Purple requiring 67 grams. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Jupiter Banana, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple may appeal to those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel. Overall, while the actuation force may vary between the two switches, the bottom out force is quite similar, ensuring that users will get comparable results in terms of typing feedback and experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jupiter Banana offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers looking for speed. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple provides a more substantial keypress feel with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a deeper actuation. Both switches provide different tactile experiences based on their travel distance, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Purple has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Purple for $5.00.
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 tactile switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, giving a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. The sound produced by both switches can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is considered mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with a safe, middle-ground feel. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable typing experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Banana switch provides a high-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy feel, while the Polaris Purple switch presents a more neutral sound and a mild and polished feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing experience, but users can expect similar quality results in terms of tactile feedback and overall performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you are looking for a switch with a high-precision mold, softer backlight effects, and a strong return, the Jupiter Banana may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a big tactile bump for a thrilling typing experience and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple could be more up your alley. Consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so it's all about finding the one that suits you best.
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