Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Red Panda mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Banana, with its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, is a tactile switch that delivers a strong return and consistent feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a polished and high-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda offers a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound, giving it a thocky and mild feel. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different typing styles; 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
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Banana and Outemu Red Panda both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound characteristics, both switches offer similar results with their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana and Red Panda differ in terms of their bottom housings. The Jupiter Banana utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. Similarly, the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing offers the same qualities, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound experience. While the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Outemu Red Panda showcase the importance of housing materials in the sound profile of mechanical switches. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, they differentiate themselves with their choice of bottom housings. Whether it be the sharper, crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing or the deeper, fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing, each material brings a unique element to the overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a blend of characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provide different options for users based on their preferences. The Jupiter Banana has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In comparison, the Red Panda offers a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, resulting in a medium typing feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Red Panda may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Jupiter Banana. Overall, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring that users can find the right fit based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them suitable for quick and responsive typing or gaming experiences. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, so you can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and performance. However, if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, you may find the Jupiter Banana to offer a touch more depth, while the Red Panda may provide a slightly quicker response due to its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for key feel and response time.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40.
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 switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant characteristics, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch is described as thocky, giving a deep, rich, and satisfying sound. The choice between the two would largely depend on personal preference for sound profiles, with the Jupiter Banana offering a more high-pitched and resonant sound while the Red Panda provides a thockier experience.
In regards to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is praised for its polished and creamy attributes, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubrication, resulting in reduced friction and effortless key travel. On the contrary, the Outemu Red Panda switch is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. Those who prefer a smoother and buttery sensation may lean towards the Jupiter Banana, while the Red Panda would cater to individuals looking for a more approachable typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Outemu Red Panda switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and resonant sound alongside a polished and creamy feel, while the Red Panda offers a thocky sound and a mild tactile experience. Depending on whether you value a sharper sound profile with smooth key travel or a deep, satisfying sound with a gentle typing feel, you can choose between the two switches to achieve your desired typing experience. Both switches are capable of delivering excellent tactile feedback, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switches, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 69 grams and enjoy a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, along with smooth and creamy key feel, then the Gateron Jupiter Banana may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter 60-gram bottom out force and enjoy a thocky sound profile, along with a milder typing experience, then the Outemu Red Panda could be the better option. Remember to consider your personal typing preferences and needs when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
