Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, enhanced with two-stage springs for a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, a linear switch, offers a buttery smooth typing experience with its progressive spring and dry-lube design. While the Jupiter Banana is described as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant', the Sea Salt Lemon is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', and 'Mild'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, we find that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those looking to enhance their RGB lighting experience. The similarities in the top housing suggest that users can expect similar sound qualities and aesthetic appeal from both switches.
However, the key point of differentiation lies in the bottom housings of the Jupiter Banana and Sea Salt Lemon. While the Jupiter Banana boasts a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Sea Salt Lemon also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing but with the characteristics of absorbing more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials highlights how different plastics can impact the overall typing experience and sound output of mechanical switches.
Overall, it is important to consider how the split between the top and bottom housings affects the overall typing experience. The qualities of each housing material contribute to different aspects of the sound and feel of the switch: the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the unique properties of the housing materials in each switch can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is clear that the Jupiter Banana is heavier while the Sea Salt Lemon is lighter. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Sea Salt Lemon has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light. For those who prefer a stronger push feel, the Jupiter Banana would be the better choice, as it provides a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may find the Sea Salt Lemon more suitable. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing or gaming comfort.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, it is evident that the Sea Salt Lemon has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Jupiter Banana's 3.4 mm. The Sea Salt Lemon falls more towards the traditional 4.0 mm range, while the Jupiter Banana is slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Jupiter Banana for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Sea Salt Lemon. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $2.80. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Jupiter Banana and Sea Salt Lemon.
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 offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, producing a sharp and crisp sound with each press. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to the Jupiter Banana. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference for sound profiles, with the Jupiter Banana offering a more high-pitched and resonant sound, while the Sea Salt Lemon provides a smoother and more neutral typing experience.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is described as polished and creamy, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In comparison, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a mild typing experience, with a gentle feel that falls into a safe, middle-ground zone. While the Jupiter Banana switch emphasizes a buttery and silky sensation, the Sea Salt Lemon switch aims for a more approachable and subtle typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference for tactile feedback and typing smoothness.
In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Banana switch provides a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, coupled with a polished and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, paired with a mild and gentle typing feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Jupiter Banana leaning towards a more tactile and refined typing experience, while the Sea Salt Lemon focuses on a smoother and more subtle feel. By selecting the switch that aligns with their specific preferences for sound and feel, newcomers can ensure an optimal typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a tactile typing experience with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Banana would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a buttery smooth linear typing experience with a progressive spring and dry-lube design, the Sea Salt Lemon would be more suited to your preferences. Additionally, if you prefer a high-pitched, resonant sound profile and a polished, creamy feel, the Jupiter Banana would be a great fit. However, if you prefer a low-pitched, neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, the Sea Salt Lemon would be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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