Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to examine are the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HC Studio Roselle. The Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch that stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects. With two-stage springs, it provides a strong return and consistent feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Roselle from HC Studio is a linear switch known for its impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy sensation, thanks to its inherent material blend. Typing on the Roselle also produces a subtle, low-pitched sound signature, appealing to those who enjoy a bassy, frictionless, low-pitched, mild, and neutral feel. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences and 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
45g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
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
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HC Studio Roselle offer different sound profiles and aesthetics due to their composition. The Jupiter Banana features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Roselle's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Jupiter Banana emphasizing clarity and resonance, while the Roselle focuses on depth and subtlety.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Jupiter Banana utilizes a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone. Similarly, the Roselle's POM bottom housing contributes to a deep and muted sound profile, complementing the characteristics of the top housing. Although both switches feature different bottom housing materials, they both offer a pleasing sound experience that enhances the overall typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HC Studio Roselle will depend on personal preferences for sound profiles and aesthetics. While the Jupiter Banana offers a sharper and more resonant sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, the Roselle provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Banana and the POM bottom housing of the Roselle both contribute to a satisfying typing experience, showcasing the versatility and unique characteristics of each switch. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Banana switch is heavier than the Roselle switch. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, while the Roselle has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. This means that the Jupiter Banana provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Roselle offers a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. The actuation force of the Jupiter Banana is higher than that of the Roselle, requiring more force to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force of the Jupiter Banana is also heavier than that of the Roselle. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Roselle has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jupiter Banana. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular among gamers for their quick response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Jupiter Banana, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Roselle. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 characteristics, providing a sharp and crisp sound with an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch offers a bassy, low-pitched sound profile with a subtle, low-pitched signature, creating a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Depending on personal preference, the Jupiter Banana would be ideal for those who enjoy a brighter sound, while the Roselle would appeal to individuals seeking a deeper, more mellow tone.
When it comes to 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 HC Studio Roselle, on the other hand, provides a frictionless and mild typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance and offering a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users. Those who prefer a more buttery and silky sensation may lean towards the Jupiter Banana, while the Roselle would cater to those who prefer a smoother and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and HC Studio Roselle linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched sound with a polished and creamy feel, tailored for those who enjoy a sharp and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Roselle offers a bassy sound with a frictionless and mild feel, appealing to individuals seeking a deeper and smoother typing sensation. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches provide distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and high-precision molds, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch would be a great choice. These switches provide a strong return and consistent feel, making them ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you are in search of a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and an incredibly smooth typing experience, the HC Studio Roselle switch would be the way to go. With its unique material blend and ethereally smooth sensation, the Roselle offers a gentle typing experience with a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. Ultimately, your preference between the Jupiter Banana and Roselle switches will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback or smoothness in your typing experience.
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