Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Kailh Sage stand out as excellent options for different reasons. The Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch loved for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a consistent feel with a strong return. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage offers a unique clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness. While the Jupiter Banana is described as 'polished' and 'cream', the Sage is labeled as 'invigorating' and 'crunchy'. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Kailh Sage feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. While both switches share this feature in common, it is important to note that the overall typing experience and sound may vary based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana and the Sage differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Jupiter Banana utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Sage's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with this material. This contrast highlights how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound output of a switch.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Gateron Jupiter Banana offers a unique blend of qualities, resulting in a distinct typing experience. In comparison, the Kailh Sage's use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings may lead to a more consistent sound profile throughout typing. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining sound characteristics, showing how variations in material can impact the overall feel and sound of mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that they both have a medium-heavy bottom out force. However, the actuation force differs between the two. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams, while the Sage's actuation force is unknown. This makes the Jupiter Banana the lighter option in terms of actuation force. The heavier bottom out force of 70 grams is the same for both switches. The weight of a switch is crucial as it affects how long one can type comfortably without fatigue. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Jupiter Banana for extended use, while others might opt for the stronger push feel of the Sage for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we see that the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sage has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. The difference of 0.2 mm between the two may not be significant to some users, but it can affect the overall feel and preference for others. Ultimately, whether you prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana or the slightly longer travel distance of the Sage will depend on your personal preference for key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80, whereas the Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25.
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 qualities, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch offers a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Banana switch is recognized for its polished and creamy attributes, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Kailh Sage switch is described as invigorating and sharp, providing pronounced feedback and a strong tactile bump with each keystroke. Both switches aim to deliver an immersive typing sensation, albeit through different approaches to tactile feedback and keypress response.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Kailh Sage switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile feels that cater to different preferences in mechanical key switches. While the Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and polished typing experience, the Sage offers a crunchy sound and sharp tactile response. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can deliver satisfying results for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who values a more refined and smooth typing experience with a softer backlight effect, then the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier weight and sharp clickiness, then the Kailh Sage clicky switch might be more suited to your preference. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound and feel that best fits your typing style and preferences. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so take into consideration what you prioritize in a keyboard switch before making your final decision.
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