Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Jupiter Banana is known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, giving it a polished and creamy feel. Paired with two-stage springs, this switch provides a strong return with a consistent tactile experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, resulting in a bouncy and approachable feel. Additionally, it provides a deep and thocky sound profile. Both switches have their unique qualities that may cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring lies in their bottom housing. The Jupiter Banana features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This contrast in bottom housing materials leads to a distinct typing experience for each switch, with the Jupiter Banana offering a more muted and round sound, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a clearer and resonant sound.
In terms of their top housing materials, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilize polycarbonate. This choice enhances the sound profile of both switches, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also makes them ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows the lighting effects to shine through. Despite sharing the same top housing material, the two switches may still offer slightly different sound profiles due to the influence of their bottom housing material.
Overall, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both feature polycarbonate top housing, their differing bottom housing materials result in distinct typing experiences. The Jupiter Banana with its nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring with its polycarbonate bottom housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound. These differences in sound profiles make each switch unique, catering to different preferences for keyboard enthusiasts. However, the shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures that both switches excel in producing a clear and resonant sound, making them suitable choices for those seeking an enhanced typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is clear that the Jupiter Banana requires a heavier touch than the Shadow (Ink). The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Shadow (Ink) would be the ideal choice. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial push feel, the Jupiter Banana would provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Jupiter Banana. The shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant characteristics, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, which is considered more immersive and satisfying. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on whether you prefer a higher-pitched or a deeper sound.
In terms of 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with lively keys that rebound when pressed. The choice between these two switches would come down to whether you prefer a smoother, buttery typing experience or a more responsive and bouncy feel while typing.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on your preferences for sound (high-pitched versus deep and thocky) and feel (polished and creamy versus bouncy), you can choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences, so you can expect satisfying results regardless of your selection.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, along with a polished and creamy feel, then the Jupiter Banana switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a deep and thocky sound profile, along with a bouncy feel, then the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch may be more suitable for your needs. Take into account your sound and feel preferences when making your decision on which switch to go with. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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