Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to the type of feedback and feel you prefer while typing or gaming. The Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its unique characteristics, such as high-precision molds that enhance performance and a softer backlight effect, which not only adds a touch of visual flair but also ensures a distinctly tactile response with each keystroke. Its two-stage springs provide a strong return and a consistent feel, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a balance of feedback and comfort. On the other hand, the HMX Poro is a linear switch that excels in delivering an ultra-smooth typing experience thanks to meticulous lubrication. This switch is designed for effortless gliding, paired with a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile that many users find enjoyable, especially during fast-paced gaming or typing scenarios. While the Jupiter Banana might appeal to users seeking tactile feedback and a dynamic typing experience, the Poro is more suited for those who prefer the seamless flow of linear switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HMX Poro exhibit notable differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence the sound profiles of each switch. The Jupiter Banana utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This material enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch's acoustic feedback, making it ideal for users seeking a crisper typing experience. In contrast, the Poro’s top housing is constructed from nylon, a softer plastic that absorbs sound rather than amplifying it. As a result, the Poro yields a deeper, fuller sound profile, resulting in a more muted auditory experience during typing.
Both switches feature nylon as their bottom housing material, aligning them more closely in terms of sound characteristics in that portion. The nylon bottom housing in both the Jupiter Banana and the Poro creates a deeper and rounder sound, muffling the sharpness that the Jupiter's polycarbonate top housing provides. This shared material means that when pressing the switch down, users will experience a similar feel and sound profile stemming from the bottom housing. Thus, regardless of the notable differences in their top housings, both switches offer a consistent typing experience when it comes to bottom-out sounds and tactile feedback.
When considering the overall performance of the two switches, their differing top housing materials result in a unique combination of sound profiles. The Jupiter Banana produces a crisper and more resonant sound on key release due to its polycarbonate top, while the Poro offers a more subdued sound experience. However, since both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, the foundational acoustic qualities will align, ensuring that users will experience similarities in terms of depth and fullness when bottoming out the keys. This interplay between the two types of housings underscores how housing materials define the auditory response and feel of mechanical switches, providing an interesting contrast in overall performance between the two models.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch with an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams to the HMX Poro linear switch, which has a significantly lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, we can see distinct differences in their weight profiles. The Jupiter Banana is classified as medium-heavy, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Poro's lighter switches may be more appealing for users who wish to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions without experiencing fatigue. With such notable differences, the Jupiter Banana provides a firmer resistance, while the Poro allows for a much easier keystroke activation. Therefore, for those who enjoy a softer feel, the HMX Poro is the clear choice, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana is ideal for those who favor a heavier actuation.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Poro linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Jupiter Banana the shorter option of the two, providing a more immediate actuation that some gamers might prefer for faster response times. On the other hand, the HMX Poro, with its longer travel distance, offers a more substantial and deeper feel, which might appeal to those who enjoy a more robust typing experience. If you're looking for a switch that allows for quick keystrokes, the Jupiter Banana is the better choice, while the Poro could be more suitable for individuals who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is characterized by its high-pitched and resonant profile. The sharp, crisp noise produced during keystrokes creates an engaging auditory experience, making it ideal for users who prefer a cleaner sound over the bass-heavy profiles of other switches. While the sound quality of the HMX Poro linear switch is not specified, it is important to note that a switch’s sound can vary based on factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used. Therefore, if you’re eager for a similar auditory experience, you might consider selecting components that complement the characteristics of either switch.
In terms of tactile feel, the Jupiter Banana shines with its polished and creamy qualities. Users can expect a smooth and refined transition when typing, largely due to the two-stage springs and factory lubrication that enhance the switch's overall smoothness and reduce friction. This results in a delightful sensation, as if your fingers are gliding effortlessly across the keys. Unfortunately, no specific feel qualities are available for the HMX Poro linear switch, leaving a gap in the comparison. However, knowing that it is meticulously lubricated suggests it might provide a similarly smooth typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers distinct auditory qualities and a luxurious tactile feel, there is limited information regarding the HMX Poro linear switch's sound and tactile characteristics. The Jupiter Banana's high-pitched, resonant sound and polished, creamy feel create a unique typing experience, but without the specifics on the Poro, drawing direct comparisons remains challenging. If sound and feel are paramount in your choice, the Jupiter Banana provides a clear path forward, while for the HMX Poro, further exploration may reveal how closely it can match or differ from that experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Poro linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and intensity. If you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a noticeable resistant feedback, the Jupiter Banana, with its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 69 grams, might be the ideal option for you. These switches provide a polished and creamy feel, allowing for smooth yet assertive keystrokes, making them particularly suitable for tasks that require precision, such as coding or gaming. Additionally, the high-pitched, resonant sound profile adds an engaging auditory layer that typists who appreciate a sharper, cleaner sound will likely enjoy. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter typing feel with swift keystrokes, the HMX Poro linear switch, featuring a light bottom-out force of just 50 grams, would serve you well. Their silky smooth actuation allows for rapid typing with minimal resistance, making them excellent for long writing sessions where comfort and speed are paramount. In essence, consider the Jupiter Banana for tactile feedback and pronounced audio, while the HMX Poro is perfect for effortless gliding and rapid keystrokes.
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