Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro are both excellent options to consider. The Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility with a light touch and neutral sound signature, making it a versatile choice for a balanced typing experience. While the Jupiter Banana leans towards a polished, high-pitched, and creamy feel, the Violet Gold Pro is described as stepped and neutral. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, but it ultimately depends on the individual's typing style and preference. 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

Dareu Violet Gold Pro Tactile

$2.80 per 10

$7.73

$4.76 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Jupiter Banana and Dareu Violet Gold Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana and Violet Gold Pro differ in their bottom housings, with the Jupiter Banana using nylon and the Violet Gold Pro also using nylon. Nylon bottom housings create a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housings, as nylon absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.

While the top housings of both switches are constructed from polycarbonate, the Gateron Jupiter Banana's use of nylon for the bottom housing provides a different typing experience compared to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro's nylon bottom housing. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings means that each component will have a distinct impact on the sound and feel of the switch when pressed. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, despite both switches featuring similar top housing materials, the combination of different bottom housings results in varying typing experiences.

Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Dareu Violet Gold Pro will depend on the user's preference for typing experience. The sharper and crisper sound profile produced by the polycarbonate top housing of both switches may be appealing to those who enjoy a more distinct sound feedback. However, the difference in bottom housing material may sway some users towards the Gateron Jupiter Banana for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, highlighting the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Jupiter Banana has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Violet Gold Pro's 45 grams, making it the heavier option. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Jupiter Banana is 69 grams, while the Violet Gold Pro's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Jupiter Banana requires more force to trigger a keystroke and to fully press down compared to the Violet Gold Pro. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Jupiter Banana may be the preferred choice due to its heavier forces. However, for individuals who prefer a lighter touch and the ability to type for longer periods of time without fatigue, the Violet Gold Pro with its lighter actuation force may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Violet Gold Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jupiter Banana. A shorter travel distance can be beneficial for gamers seeking faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a more substantial depth to their keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique advantages, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between them.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, producing sharp and crisp sounds with each keystroke. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and typing environments. Depending on the keyboard and keycap setup, the sound produced by these switches can vary, but overall, the Jupiter Banana leans towards a more vibrant and sharp sound, while the Violet Gold Pro offers a more balanced and moderate auditory experience.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, 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. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch is characterized as stepped, providing a tactile feedback that feels like it has two stages - offering a more subtle sensation compared to switches with a single large bump. The creamy feel of the Jupiter Banana switch is achieved through factory lubing or specific materials, while the stepped feel of the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a more controlled and gentle keystroke experience.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and resonant sound profile with a polished and creamy typing feel, ideal for those looking for a more vibrant and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a neutral sound signature and a stepped tactile feel, making it a versatile option suitable for various users and typing preferences. While there are differences in sound and feel between the two switches, users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing satisfaction and performance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider the factors that are most important to you. If you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of 69 grams and a high-precision mold for a consistent and strong typing experience, the Jupiter Banana may be the way to go. However, if you are looking for a switch with a lighter touch and a neutral sound profile, the Violet Gold Pro could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Violet Gold Pro Tactile

$7.73

$4.76 per 10

Learn more