Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, and the KTT Purple Star, a linear switch, it's essential to consider the unique features they offer. The Jupiter Banana is celebrated for its high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, and two-stage springs that provide a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Purple Star stands out for its all-POM construction, delivering a buttery smooth typing experience with a very light 45g bottom-out for easy typing. While the Jupiter Banana is polished, high-pitched, and creamy, the Purple Star is mild, low-pitched, and easy to press. Both switches have their merits depending on personal preferences, but diving deeper into the specifics will help you make the best choice for your keyboard setup.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the KTT Purple Star, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on the materials used. The Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Purple Star's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, while POM provides a more subtle look. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and visual appeal.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Jupiter Banana's nylon material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Purple Star's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper sound profile, although it is relatively more muted compared to nylon. Both materials bring their own unique qualities to the switches, affecting the overall sound and feel of typing. Despite the differences in material, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective bottom housings, catering to those who prefer a deeper and more resonant sound while typing.
While the top and bottom housings of the Jupiter Banana and the Purple Star differ in material composition, they each play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile of the switches. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, providing a more tactile experience for the user. On the other hand, the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall auditory experience. Despite the variations in housing materials, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Banana is heavier in both aspects. With an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, the Jupiter Banana provides a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Star is lighter, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, offering a more gentle typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Purple Star, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Jupiter Banana for its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference, with weight playing a significant role in determining the typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance. The Jupiter Banana has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Purple Star comes in at 3.5mm. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Jupiter Banana's shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Purple Star with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, and either option would provide similar results in terms of keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80, whereas the KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88.
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 characteristics, providing a sharp and crisp sound with an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Jupiter Banana leaning towards a sharper sound and the Purple Star offering a more subdued tone.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is praised for its polished and creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and refined sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the KTT Purple Star linear switch offers a milder typing experience with easy-to-press keys that require minimal force to activate. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering unique tactile feedback and comfort, with the Jupiter Banana focusing on a silky smooth feel and the Purple Star providing a gentle and low-impact typing sensation.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Banana excels in providing a high-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy feel, the Purple Star stands out for its low-pitched sound profile and mild, easy-to-press typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches deliver excellent performance and comfort for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a polished and creamy typing experience with a bit of resistance and a high-pitched, resonant sound, the Jupiter Banana might be the perfect fit for you. However, if you prefer a mild, easy-to-press typing feel with a low-pitched sound profile and a lighter bottom-out force, the Purple Star could be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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