Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Aflion Thunder Shadow mechanical keyboard switches, both are tactile switches known for their unique features. The Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, thanks to two-stage springs that provide a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow from Aflion boasts a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel with a 63.5g bottom-out, all while maintaining a neutral sound signature. Each switch has its own strengths - the Jupiter Banana for its polished and creamy feel, and the Thunder Shadow for its invigorating tactile bump and balanced weight. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its translucency, making it a popular choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. This material's stiffness contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Jupiter Banana and Thunder Shadow provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material.
While both the Jupiter Banana and the Thunder Shadow utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Jupiter Banana's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper sound profile, while the Thunder Shadow's nylon bottom housing offers a similar effect. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. Regardless of these differences, both switches provide a distinct sound profile that is influenced by their respective housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch differ slightly in terms of weight. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Thunder Shadow, which has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy category, providing a tactile typing experience. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Thunder Shadow for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the heavier push feel of the Jupiter Banana for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, which is slightly shorter than the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.5mm. While the difference between the two switches is minimal, it may be noticeable for users who are particularly sensitive to travel distances. Gamers, who typically prefer faster response times, may lean towards the Jupiter Banana due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Thunder Shadow more appealing. Ultimately, both switches offer a tactile typing experience, but the choice between the two may come down to personal preference in regards to travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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 is known for its high-pitched and resonant characteristics, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch offers a neutral sound profile, striking a balance between richness and sharpness. Depending on personal preference and surrounding factors like keyboard and keycaps, the sound produced by these switches may vary.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is praised for its polished and creamy typing experience, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch is described as invigorating, providing pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. Both switches aim to enhance the overall typing sensation, with the Jupiter Banana focusing on a refined, buttery feel and the Thunder Shadow on a dynamic, immersive experience.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switches ultimately boils down to personal preference. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience. To achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel, one can experiment with different keyboard setups and configurations to find the perfect match for their individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with high-precision molds, softer backlight effects, and a two-stage spring for a strong return and consistent feel, then the Jupiter Banana may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly lower bottom out force, a pronounced tactile bump, and a balanced feel with a neutral sound signature, the Thunder Shadow could be more suitable for your preferences. Additionally, if you enjoy a high-pitched and resonant sound profile along with a polished and creamy typing experience, the Jupiter Banana may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and an invigorating feel that offers pronounced feedback and reactive typing sensation, the Thunder Shadow might be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of force, feel, sound, and typing experience.
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