Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Dareu Snow offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch that is best 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 Snow switch by Dareu is a linear switch that stands out for its innovative use of POK material for a smooth typing experience and a deeper sound signature. While the Jupiter Banana is categorized as polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant, the Snow is categorized as thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different typing preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
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
The Gateron Jupiter Banana and Dareu Snow both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing sharp, higher-pitched sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the Jupiter Banana allows for a clear and resonant sound, especially useful for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Snow's POK top housing offers a smoother and clackier typing experience with exceptional durability, making it one of the smoothest materials available. While both switches share a similar top housing material, the Snow's POK material provides added strength and wear resistance compared to the Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Dareu Snow utilize nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound experience. Therefore, both switches offer a similar typing experience with regards to the bottom housing material. The qualities of the bottom housing will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, contributing to a more satisfying typing experience overall.
Overall, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Dareu Snow share similar housing materials such as polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings, they offer distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing provides a clearer and sharper sound profile, while the Snow's POK material offers smoother and clackier switches with exceptional durability. Both switches utilize nylon bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound experience, emphasizing the importance of housing materials on the overall typing feel and sound of mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is clear 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, while the Snow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range in terms of force required to actuate and bottom out. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Snow more to their liking, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Jupiter Banana may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize fast response times, such as gamers. However, the Jupiter Banana has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Snow. This means that users who prefer a slightly deeper key press may lean towards the Jupiter Banana, while those who prefer a slightly shorter distance may opt for the Snow. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, providing a quick and responsive typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, producing sharp and crisp sounds that can be immersive. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch provides a thocky sound profile with a deep and satisfying tone, along with options for a neutral or low-pitched sound depending on preference. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Jupiter Banana being more on the high-pitched end while the Snow leans towards a deeper sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Banana switch boasts a polished and creamy typing sensation, offering a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and provides a sleek key travel experience. The Dareu Snow switch, on the other hand, is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback that adds a lively feel to the keystrokes. While the Jupiter Banana focuses on delivering a creamy typing feel, the Snow switch stands out with its bouncy and energetic key presses.
Overall, when considering the sound and feel of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The high-pitched and resonant sound of the Jupiter Banana pairs well with its polished and creamy typing feel, creating a refined and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch provides a thocky sound profile and bouncy feel, adding depth and liveliness to the keystrokes. Depending on whether one prefers a sharper or deeper sound, a smoother or bouncier feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience in different ways. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and high-precision molds for a consistent feel, then the Gateron Jupiter Banana would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a medium bottom out force and an innovative use of POK material for a unique sound signature, then the Dareu Snow would be the way to go. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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