Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura both fall under the tactile switch category, offering a unique typing experience for users. The Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, thanks to its two-stage springs that ensure a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura boasts a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke, with a tactility that strikes a delicate balance of being pronounced without being overpowering. While the Jupiter Banana is described as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant', the Purple Sakura is characterized by being 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Snappy'. Each switch provides a different typing sensation, catering to individual preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the bottom housing of the Jupiter Banana is made of nylon, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer properties, absorbing more sound and resulting in a rounder sound overall.
Despite the similarities in top housing materials, the differences in bottom housing materials between the two switches are significant. The nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Banana provides a different typing experience compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, as the softer material absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound profile. When typing on the Jupiter Banana, users may notice a deeper and fuller sound, which could impact the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing may offer a slightly different feel and sound when pressing down on the keys, highlighting the importance of housing material on the overall performance of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura will depend on personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound, the use of nylon in the bottom housing sets them apart. Users looking for a deeper and fuller sound may prefer the Jupiter Banana with its nylon bottom housing, while those seeking a slightly different typing experience may opt for the Sarokeys Purple Sakura. Either way, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Banana has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 50 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Jupiter Banana requires 69 grams, while the Purple Sakura needs 60 grams, making the latter slightly lighter in this aspect. This suggests that the Purple Sakura may provide a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Jupiter Banana may appeal to those who prefer a bit more resistance and a stronger push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired level of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Purple Sakura has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Jupiter Banana. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, the difference in travel distance is minimal, so you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness when using either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of the feel of the key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant characteristics, delivering a sharp and crisp sound that can be immersive. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches will provide satisfying typing experiences, with the Jupiter Bananas offering a more distinct and potentially polarizing sound, while the Purple Sakuras provide a mild and neutral sound signature that is sure to please a broader audience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch, on the other hand, is known for its buttery, mild, and snappy feel, providing a seamless and responsive typing sensation. Both switches excel in providing tactile feedback and can cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel, with the Jupiter Bananas leaning towards a smoother and refined experience, while the Purple Sakuras focus on a buttery and responsive feel.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of sound and feel, it is evident that both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches offer unique and appealing characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Banana switch provides a high-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy feel, ideal for those who enjoy a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch delivers a neutral sound profile with a buttery, mild, and snappy feel, suitable for users seeking a smooth and responsive typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches offer quality tactile feedback, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of which one is chosen.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel that best suit your preferences. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a high-pitched, resonant sound profile with a polished and creamy typing experience, the Jupiter Banana may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a neutral sound profile with a buttery, mild, and snappy typing experience, the Purple Sakura could be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
Mentioned in this article
