Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the KTT Strawberry are two options that stand out for their unique characteristics. The Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, is praised for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, thanks to its two-stage springs that provide a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry, a linear switch, is beloved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, with an attractive pink and clear housing design. While the Jupiter Banana offers a polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant typing experience, the Strawberry provides a low-pitched, frictionless, silky, and buttery feel. Each switch has its own appeal depending on individual 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
43g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the KTT Strawberry use polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is relatively stiff, leading to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while the Jupiter Banana also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Strawberry sticks to polycarbonate for both the top and bottom, resulting in a consistent sharp and crisp sound throughout.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature clear housings due to the translucency of polycarbonate. This allows for vibrant RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall look of the keyboard. However, the Jupiter Banana's combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a unique sound experience with a mix of sharpness and depth, while the KTT Strawberry maintains a consistent sound profile with polycarbonate top and bottom housings.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the KTT Strawberry comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches offer sharp, high-pitched sound profiles with their polycarbonate top housing, the Jupiter Banana's inclusion of a nylon bottom housing adds a deeper element to the typing experience. Meanwhile, the Strawberry's consistent use of polycarbonate in both housings ensures a uniform crisp and resonant sound across the keyboard. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a mix of sharpness and depth or a consistent sound profile throughout.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Banana is heavier while the Strawberry is lighter. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium option. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Strawberry switch, as it allows for longer typing durations without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Jupiter Banana switch due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, whereas the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance compared to the Strawberry. Typically, a travel distance of 4.0mm is considered traditional, while 3.0mm is shallower. Gamers often opt for shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Jupiter Banana a preferred choice for gaming. On the other hand, the Strawberry's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific use case.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
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 its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, offering a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch features a low-pitched sound, giving a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Jupiter Banana or a more mellow tone with the Strawberry.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is known for its polished and creamy typing experience, providing a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction and offers a sleek typing sensation. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished, all contributing to an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. Both switches promise a premium typing feel, with the Jupiter Banana focusing on a creamy sensation and the Strawberry offering a silky and buttery keystroke experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Banana excels in providing a high-pitched and resonant sound profile coupled with a polished and creamy typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry stands out with its low-pitched sound and a mix of frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished textures for a smooth and delightful typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, users can achieve satisfying results with either switch, knowing that they will deliver similar high-quality performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a tactile feedback with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Jupiter Banana may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a polished and creamy typing experience, with a strong return and consistent feel, the Jupiter Banana is a great option. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and a smoother, low-pitched sound profile, along with a frictionless, silky, and buttery typing experience, then the KTT Strawberry may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall feel and sound profile that you find most comfortable and enjoyable.
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