Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, to the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), a linear switch, it is evident that each offers unique characteristics for different typing preferences. The Jupiter Banana is revered for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a tactile typing experience with strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) stands out for its extremely quiet sound profile, smooth operation, and pillowy feel, offering a linear typing experience. While the Jupiter Banana is polished, high-pitched, and resonant, the Silent Frozen (V2) is thocky, low-pitched, creamy, buttery, muted, feathery, subtle, and polished. Each switch caters to specific preferences and typing styles, so choosing between them depends on what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the Silent Frozen (V2) also boasts a polycarbonate bottom housing, which further contributes to its clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics.
While both the Jupiter Banana and Silent Frozen (V2) share a polycarbonate top housing, their differences lie in the choice of bottom housing material. The use of nylon in the Jupiter Banana's bottom housing results in a duller and rounder sound profile, contrasting with the sharper and crisper sound profile created by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen (V2). This distinction highlights how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, as each material absorbs sound differently and thus affects the switch's typing experience.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) showcases how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a key role in the sound when a key is released. By understanding how these housing materials interact with each other, users can make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch differ significantly in terms of weight. The Jupiter Banana has a medium-heavy actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. In comparison, the Silent Frozen (V2) is lighter, with an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. While some may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Jupiter Banana for a more substantial feel, others may opt for the lighter Silent Frozen (V2) for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, slightly shorter than the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While the difference between the two is minimal, it may still impact the feel and responsiveness of the switches for some users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Jupiter Banana with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may prefer the Silent Frozen (V2) with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their close travel distances, but the subtle variation may cater to different preferences in typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 characterized by a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and immersive auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch offers a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying, with a quieter noise level compared to regular switches. While the Jupiter Banana produces a more sharp sound, the Silent Frozen switches offer a softer and more bass-heavy tone, catering to different preferences. The sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switches offer a creamy typing experience. They provide a smooth and buttery sensation, thanks to either factory lubrication or specific materials used in the switch construction. This results in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and a seamless, effortless keystroke experience. Additionally, the Silent Frozen switches also offer a feathery typing feel, characterized by exceptionally light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and makes extended typing sessions comfortable. The Jupiter Banana switch, as described, provides a polished typing experience due to its smooth and refined finish.
Overall, depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch offer unique qualities. While the Jupiter Banana switch focuses on a high-pitched, resonant sound and a polished typing feel, the Silent Frozen switches provide a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound along with a creamy and feathery typing experience. Choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a sharper sound profile with consistent tactile feedback or a quieter, more pillowy sound with a smoother, lighter typing experience. Ultimately, both switches promise a satisfying and comfortable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch or the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy the high-precision molds and softer backlight effects of the Jupiter Banana, then this switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a lighter bottom out force and value the extremely quiet sound profile and super smooth feel of the Silent Frozen (V2), then this switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and a medium-heavy feel or a silent, smooth, and light typing experience.
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