Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Dareu Sky POM stand out as popular options. The Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, enhanced with two-stage springs to ensure a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM is a linear switch crafted entirely from POM material, offering premium quality at an accessible price point with a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. While the Jupiter Banana is described as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant', the Sky POM is characterized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky'. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Dareu Sky POM both feature polycarbonate top housings which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. However, the Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing is described as creating a crisper sound, while the Sky POM's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience and preference for users who have a preference for a specific type of sound when typing.
On the other hand, both switches have nylon bottom housings which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The nylon material in the bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material means that the typing experience in terms of sound will be consistent between the two switches, offering a familiar and satisfying typing experience for users who appreciate the unique sound profile of nylon bottom housings.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings will be distinctly felt when using each switch. The bottom housing material will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will impact the sound when releasing the key. This distinction emphasizes the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile and overall typing experience of mechanical switches, making the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Dareu Sky POM a matter of personal preference based on sound characteristics and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is heavier in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky POM has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Sky POM for longer typing or gaming sessions. While the actuation force of the Sky POM is lighter, the lack of information on the bottom out force means that the overall typing experience may vary. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sky POM has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Jupiter Banana's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking faster response times, such as gamers, while the Sky POM's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial keypress feel for those who prefer a deeper actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 known for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offers a low-pitched sound, which is typically more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's important to consider these variables when choosing a switch based on sound preference.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is noted for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and refined key travel that reduces friction and provides a sleek typing sensation. Similarly, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, ensuring a smooth and fluid keystroke that is effortless and uniform. Both switches prioritize a luxurious typing experience through their respective tactile and linear characteristics, appealing to users who value comfort and precision in their typing sessions.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy feel, the Sky POM delivers a low-pitched sound with a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches are designed to elevate the typing experience with their distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and high-precision molds, opt for the Jupiter Banana. This switch offers a polished and creamy feel, along with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a POM material construction and a gentle actuation force, the Sky POM is the better choice. This switch provides a buttery and silky typing sensation, accompanied by a low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactility, bottom out force, materials used, and sound characteristics. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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