Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Durock T1 mechanical keyboard switches, both are tactile switches that offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, thanks to its two-stage springs that ensure a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is praised for its super comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Jupiter Banana is described as polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant, the T1 is characterized as stepped, low-pitched, neutral, accented, and polished. Each switch has its own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Durock T1 both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a clear and resonant sound, perfect for RGB lighting due to its translucency. This means that both switches will deliver a similar sound experience with a distinct tone when keys are pressed. As a result, users can expect a consistent auditory experience when typing on either switch.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Jupiter Banana features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. Similarly, the T1 also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a focus on a more subdued sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches results in a typing experience that emphasizes a deeper sound with a softer touch compared to the top housing's sharper sound profile.
When considering the overall typing experience, the qualities of each housing material are distributed throughout the switch. The bottom housing will impact the bottom-out sound and feel, thanks to its softer nature and sound absorption properties. Meanwhile, the top housing will have a more significant influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Durock T1, users can expect a consistent typing experience with slight variations in sound profiles based on the top and bottom housings.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Durock T1's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Jupiter Banana requiring 69 grams and the T1 requiring 67 grams. This means that while the Jupiter Banana may feel slightly lighter to type on initially, both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the force needed to fully press a key. Some users may prefer the slightly lighter actuation force of the Jupiter Banana for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the T1 for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock T1 tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the T1 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jupiter Banana. Generally, a shorter travel distance is favored by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feeling when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the T1 being on the longer side and the Jupiter Banana being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 switch offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, providing a sharp and crisp sound that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the Durock T1 switch produces a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various preferences. The choice of board and keycaps can further impact the overall sound of the switch, so it is essential to consider these factors when selecting a switch based on sound preference.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is described as polished and creamy, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Durock T1 switch provides a stepped and accented tactile feel, offering a two-stage tactile experience that is prominent yet not overwhelming or subtle. Both switches offer unique tactile feels that cater to different preferences, so it is important to consider personal typing preferences when choosing between the two.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Durock T1 switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched sound and a polished, creamy feel, the T1 offers a low-pitched sound and a stepped, accented tactile feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. It is recommended to test both switches to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a high-pitched, resonant sound with a polished and creamy feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lower bottom out force and a low-pitched, neutral sound with a stepped, accented, and polished feel, the Durock T1 switch may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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