Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Jerrzi Seashell stand out as distinctive options to choose from. The Gateron Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a strong return and consistent feel with its two-stage springs. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell is a linear switch with a stunning purple hue, offering a light and clacky typing experience that remains comfortable and delightful over long sessions. While the Jupiter Banana is categorized as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Resonant', the Seashell is labeled as 'Clacky', 'Feathery', 'Easy-to-press', 'High-pitched', 'Easy-to-press', 'Polished'. Ultimately, the decision to choose between these switches depends on personal preferences and typing style; 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Jerrzi Seashell feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a popular choice for switches meant for RGB lighting. This similarity in housing material ensures that both switches will produce a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when used in keyboards with backlighting.
On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana and the Seashell differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Jupiter Banana utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Conversely, the Seashell also features a nylon bottom housing, so both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel due to the shared bottom housing material.
Overall, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Jerrzi Seashell share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, they offer different experiences in terms of their bottom housings. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches results in a distinct typing feel that is deeper and fuller compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile with the polycarbonate top housing of the Jupiter Banana or a more rounded sound with the nylon bottom housing of the Seashell, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Banana is the heavier option. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Seashell has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for determining the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force indicates how much pressure is needed to press the key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Seashell, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Jupiter Banana for a heavier touch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it is clear that they provide a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance. Pressing down on either switch will result in the key traveling the same distance from the top to the bottom, allowing for a consistent typing experience. As a result, users can expect similar results when using either switch, as they both offer the same travel distance. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, providing a consistent and reliable typing experience for users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Seashell has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Seashell for $2.30.
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
The Gateron Jupiter Banana switch emits a high-pitched and resonant sound when pressed, giving a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can cater to different preferences, with the Jupiter Banana leaning towards a more resonant tone while the Seashell provides a clacky and bright sound.
When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Banana switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell switch is feathery and easy-to-press, providing a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and makes typing effortless and comfortable. While the Jupiter Banana focuses on a polished and creamy typing sensation, the Seashell switch prioritizes a feather-light touch for extended typing sessions.
Overall, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Banana excels in providing a high-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy feel, while the Seashell switch delivers a clacky and bright sound with a feather-light and easy-to-press touch. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, either of these switches can offer a delightful and comfortable typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are someone who values a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoys high-precision molds with softer backlight effects, then the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a stunning purple hue, light actuation force, and a clacky sound profile for a comfortable typing experience over long sessions, then the Jerrzi Seashell switch is the perfect choice for you. Consider your typing preferences and needs to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and requirements. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, so choose wisely based on what suits you best.
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