Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. TTC Silent Red

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and TTC Silent Red are two popular options to consider. The 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. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red is a linear switch that offers a smooth and seamless typing experience with a muted sound profile, making it ideal for quiet environments like an office or shared living space. While the Jupiter Banana is described as polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant, the Silent Red is categorized as buttery, mild, muted, and polished. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

TTC Silent Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron Jupiter Banana and TTC Silent Red switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. However, the two switches differ in their bottom housing materials. The Jupiter Banana utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent Red also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound.

While both switches share similar characteristics in their polycarbonate top housing, the differences in their bottom housing material create distinct typing experiences. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing material become more apparent in the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the Jupiter Banana and Silent Red switches offer unique typing experiences based on the combinations of polycarbonate and nylon utilized in their design.

In summary, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and TTC Silent Red switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences based on their housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharp and resonant sound, while the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the typing experience. Both switches provide clear and crisp sound profiles due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, with the nylon bottom housing absorbing more sound for a rounder effect. Whether one prefers a sharper sound profile or a fuller typing experience, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to individual preferences in mechanical keyboards.

Weight

Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, we can see some differences. The Jupiter Banana has a heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Silent Red's lighter 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Banana requires 69 grams while the Silent Red only needs 63.5 grams. This means that while the Jupiter Banana is heavier in terms of actuation force, the Silent Red is lighter when it comes to bottoming out. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a decent amount of resistance for typing enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Silent Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jupiter Banana. This means that the Silent Red switch will provide a slightly deeper press when typing or gaming. However, both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference – whether you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for faster response times or a slightly longer one for a more substantial keypress feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is characterized by a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch offers a muted sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for shared spaces or offices. The sound of each switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used in conjunction.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is noted for its buttery and mild feel, providing a seamless, effortless, and gentle typing sensation that is approachable to most users. Both switches emphasize a polished finish for sleek and comfortable typing.

Considering all available information, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy feel, the Silent Red offers a muted sound and a buttery, mild typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, key feel, and overall typing experience. If one prefers a quieter sound and gentler feel, the Silent Red switch would be the preferred option, while those looking for a sharper sound and smoother keystrokes may lean towards the Jupiter Banana.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch or the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prefer a higher bottom out force and enjoy a high-pitched, resonant sound profile with polished and creamy feel, then the Jupiter Banana may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a slightly lighter bottom out force and prefer a muted sound profile with a buttery and mild feel, then the TTC Silent Red might be more suitable for your preferences. Consider your typing habits, environment, and desired typing experience when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and comfort.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

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TTC Silent Red Linear

$5.28

$4.38 per 10

Learn more