Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Jerrzi Violet
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Jerrzi Violet switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Jerrzi Violet, both tactile switches with unique features. The Jupiter Bananas are known for their high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a tactile typing experience with a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Violet switches offer a smooth actuation and a pleasingly poppy tactility, accompanied by a neutral sound signature for a balanced typing experience. While the Jupiter Banana is described as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant', the Violet is characterized as 'Stepped' and 'Neutral'. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sensations and sound profiles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Jerrzi Violet both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differentiate with their bottom housings. The Jupiter Banana has a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Violet's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the housing materials, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Jerrzi Violet have similarities and differences. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a similar sharp and clear sound profile. However, the Jupiter Banana's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper sound, while the Violet's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a different tone. The split between the top and bottom 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 when releasing a key.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Jerrzi Violet showcase the importance of housing materials in creating distinct sound profiles for mechanical switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the choice of nylon for the Jupiter Banana's bottom housing sets it apart from the Violet. This results in a deeper and fuller sound experience for the Jupiter Banana, whereas the Violet may offer a crisper sound due to its continued use of polycarbonate. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance is essential for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a personalized typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it is clear that the Jupiter Banana is the heavier of the two. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The weight of a switch is important as it can affect typing speed and comfort. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Jerrzi Violet would be the better choice, while those who prefer a firmer typing experience may prefer the Gateron Jupiter Banana. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may prefer the Jupiter Banana for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Jerrzi Violet with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Violet has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet for $2.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, providing a sharp and clean sound with each press. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch delivers a neutral sound profile, which is moderate and suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. Both switches can produce satisfying auditory feedback, but the Jupiter Banana's sound may lean towards a sharper tone compared to the Violet's more balanced sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Jupiter Banana switch is known for its polished and creamy typing sensation, offering a smooth and refined keypress that glides effortlessly with reduced friction. In contrast, the Jerrzi Violet switch provides a stepped tactile feel, giving a mild and structured keystroke experience with distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations. While both switches deliver tactile feedback, the Jupiter Banana may offer a more buttery and luxurious typing experience due to its polished and creamy properties, while the Violet switch presents a more structured and distinct tactile bump.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Jerrzi Violet switches each bring unique qualities to the table. The Jupiter Banana offers a high-pitched and resonant sound profile along with a polished and creamy feel, promising a tactile typing experience with strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Violet switch provides a neutral sound signature and a stepped tactile feel, delivering a balanced and structured typing experience with a pleasingly poppy tactility. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from both switches, ensuring a high level of performance and comfort.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Jerrzi Violet tactile switch, it is important to consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Jupiter Banana may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a smooth, stepped key feel, the Jerrzi Violet switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
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