Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between tactile and linear switches, each offering a unique typing experience tailored to specific preferences. The Gateron Jupiter Banana, renowned for its tactile feedback, features high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a pronounced bump at the actuation point. The enhanced two-stage springs contribute to a responsive and consistent feel, providing satisfaction with every keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, celebrated for its smoothness and subtle actuation, exemplifies a premium linear switch designed for those who prefer an uninterrupted typing experience. With a delightful blend of materials that yield a satisfying clack and the exceptional factory lubrication HMX is acclaimed for, this switch offers a silky touch that minimizes finger fatigue during extended use. While the Jupiter Banana delivers an engaging tactile sensation ideal for typists who appreciate feedback, the Sunset Gleam appeals to gamers and writers who value speed and smoothness. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$2.80 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HMX Sunset Gleam, it becomes apparent that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing and nylon for their bottom housing. This similarity in materials means they will likely produce comparable sound profiles and tactile experiences. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches is characterized by its stiffness, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This quality is particularly attractive for users who prioritize auditory feedback while typing, as the clear nature of polycarbonate also allows for the vibrant display of RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboards these switches are used in.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Jupiter Banana and Sunset Gleam employ nylon, a material known for its softer properties that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The absorption characteristics of nylon result in a more muted and rounded sonority compared to the crisper tones generated by the polycarbonate top. This complementary combination means that when users press down on either switch, they'll experience the cushioned sound absorption from the nylon bottom housing, creating a well-balanced acoustic profile. Thus, while both switches employ the same materials, the differing strengths of each contribute to the final typing experience.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and HMX Sunset Gleam allows for a harmonious balance between sharper, clearer sounds and a softer, fuller typing experience. As a result, users can expect similar auditory and tactile sensations when interacting with either switch. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out feel paired with the top housing’s effect on the release sound creates a cohesive user experience, making them suitable options for typists who appreciate both aesthetic and acoustic qualities in their keyboard setups.

Weight

The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch present a notable contrast in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Jupiter Banana features an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, categorizing it as a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam has a significantly lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a more suitable choice for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience. Consequently, users looking for a keyboard to use during long hours at work or while gaming may find the lighter feel of the Sunset Gleam to be more forgiving on their fingers over extended periods. On the other hand, those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience may favor the heavier push feel provided by the Jupiter Banana. Overall, the differences in force between these switches highlight the personal preferences that dictate which switch might be a better fit for different users.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Jupiter Banana the shorter option, providing a slightly more responsive feel, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker actuation and faster response times. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam, with its longer travel distance, offers a bit more depth and a potentially more substantial typing experience, which some users might prefer for a more tactile feedback. Since the distance difference is minimal, both switches can still yield somewhat similar results in terms of keystroke responsiveness, though each caters to different preferences in feel and typing style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches share a high-pitched, resonant profile that delivers a sharp and crisp auditory experience. Users can expect a clean and immersive sound from each switch, making them suitable for environments where clarity in typing noise is desirable. The Jupiter Banana's elevated pitch and resonant qualities create a distinct sharpness, while the Sunset Gleam mirrors this with its own resonant characteristics, ensuring that both switches contribute a similar auditory effect, although the nuances may vary based on your keyboard setup and keycap choices.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana offers a polished and creamy sensation, characterized by smooth key travel and minimal friction that enhances the typing experience. This silky glide is reminiscent of a luxurious touch, thanks to the high-quality materials and factory lubing. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam switch boasts a polished and silky feel as well, but adds a bouncy sensation that gives a lively response upon actuation. While both switches provide an exceptionally smooth experience, the Sunset Gleam's bounciness introduces a dynamic rebound that can be engaging for users who prefer a more responsive feedback, setting it apart from the creamy smoothness of the Jupiter Banana.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch cater to enthusiasts seeking distinct auditory and tactile feedback. The shared high-pitched, resonant sound profiles ensure a consistent auditory experience, while the tactile qualities diverge slightly with the Jupiter Banana's creamy smoothness compared to the Sunset Gleam's bouncy and lively feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two options will largely depend on personal preference, particularly regarding the desired tactile feedback and the ambiance they wish to create with their typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you gravitate towards tactile feedback and enjoy a heavier key press, the Jupiter Banana's medium-heavy bottom-out force of 69 grams makes it suitable for those who appreciate a pronounced tactile bump. This switch's polished and creamy feel, combined with its resonant sound profile, ensures a satisfying and immersive typing experience, making it ideal for typing enthusiasts or those who prefer a more substantial sensation beneath their fingers. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter touch and prioritize smooth, linear key presses, the Sunset Gleam with its 48-gram bottom-out force is an excellent choice. Its bouncy, silky feel, along with the factory lube, offers an effortless typing experience perfect for fast-paced gaming or prolonged typing sessions. Both switches exhibit refined finishes and resonate sharply, but your decision should reflect whether you value tactile feedback or a smooth, linear action more. Ultimately, consider what activities you will be doing most on your keyboard, as this will guide you toward the switch that best complements your usage.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more