Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, to the Gateron Type L, a linear switch, there are notable differences in their characteristics and performance. The Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, thanks to the two-stage springs that provide a strong return and consistent feel. Categorized as polished, high-pitched, creamy, and resonant, this switch is ideal for those who prefer a tactile and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Type L is part of Sillyworks' Project Rehash, offering a classic feel with contemporary factory lubing practices. Being the lightest in the series, this switch only requires 45g to bottom out and produces a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Categorized as neutral, subdued, feathery, and easy to press, the Type L is perfect for users seeking a smooth and quiet typing experience. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you decide which switch best suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Type L both have unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for RGB lighting setups. In contrast, the Type L's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. While both materials have their own distinct qualities, users can expect a different auditory experience when typing on each switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Jupiter Banana and the Type L utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, making it a popular choice for switch housings. The softer plastic of the nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite sharing the same bottom housing material, the switches may still offer unique tactile feedback and sound characteristics based on the combination of materials used in their top housings.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. While the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Type L share similarities in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials, polycarbonate and nylon respectively, result in distinct sound profiles. Whether you prefer a sharper and higher-pitched sound or a deeper and fuller sound, understanding how each housing material affects the overall typing feel and sound can help you determine which switch is best suited for your preferences.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Type L linear switch. The Jupiter Banana requires 59 grams of force to actuate and 69 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Type L only needs 38 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. The lighter weight of the Type L switch may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it allows for less fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier weight of the Jupiter Banana switch may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches offer different force requirements, catering to different preferences and needs in typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Type L linear switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Type L may offer a more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Both switches provide different tactile experiences due to their travel distances, but ultimately the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keyboard use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80, whereas the Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70.
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
The subjective qualities of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch differ in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Banana switch is characterized by a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Type L switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, ideal for a moderate and subtle typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Banana switch is known for its polished and creamy sensation, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Type L switch offers a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. If you prefer a high-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy feel, the Jupiter Banana switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral and subdued sound with a feathery and easy-to-press feel, the Type L switch could be the perfect fit. Both switches showcase the precision and innovation that Gateron is known for, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a polished and creamy feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force and high-pitched, resonant sound, the Jupiter Banana may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a feathery and easy-to-press switch with a light bottom out force and neutral, subdued sound, the Type L could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you like your keyboard switches to feel and sound during use.
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