Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch to the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, both options offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Banana is known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches are designed with a delicate tactility that strikes a perfect balance, making them ideal for extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. While the Jupiter Banana offers a polished and high-pitched experience, the White Lotus provides an easy-to-press and low-pitched feel. Both switches have their own qualities that appeal to different users, depending on their typing preferences. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Durock White Lotus both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper and crisper sound profile due to their relatively stiffer plastic composition. This leads to a more resonant sound when typing, making them ideal for users who prefer a tactile typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who enjoy RGB lighting effects in their keyboards. While the housings may be similar in material, the unique design of each switch can still offer distinct tactile and auditory experiences.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Jupiter Banana and the White Lotus utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This can provide a more cushioned typing experience, especially for users who prefer a quieter keyboard. Despite both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, the design and layout of the switches may still offer slight variations in typing feel and sound output.
Overall, while the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Durock White Lotus share similarities in their housing materials, the unique design elements and construction of each switch can still provide distinct typing experiences. Whether it be the impact of the bottom housing on bottom-out sound and feel, or the influence of the top housing on sound when releasing a key, users may find subtle differences in the overall typing feel and sound profile of each switch. Regardless, both switches offer a premium typing experience with their high-quality materials and construction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, we see that the Jupiter Banana is heavier in both aspects. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the White Lotus is lighter, with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. The difference in weight between the two switches can greatly impact the typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the White Lotus for longer typing sessions, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Jupiter Banana for a stronger push. 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, making it the shorter option compared to the Durock White Lotus tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jupiter Banana offers a slightly quicker response time which may appeal to gamers looking for speed and agility in key presses. On the other hand, the White Lotus provides a deeper key press experience that some users may find more satisfying. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of travel distance, with the Jupiter Banana being slightly shorter and the White Lotus being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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, producing sharp and crisp sounds with each press. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various environments. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Jupiter Banana appealing to those who prefer a sharper sound, while the White Lotus caters to individuals looking for a more moderate and versatile sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is described as polished and creamy, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Durock White Lotus switch is characterized by being easy-to-press, mild, and subtle, offering gentle resistance during key presses and a more gentle typing experience overall. While the Jupiter Banana emphasizes a creamy sensation during typing, the White Lotus focuses on providing effortless and comfortable typing with minimal finger fatigue. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their distinct tactile feels, catering to different preferences.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Durock White Lotus switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Jupiter Banana excels in providing high-pitched sounds and a creamy typing experience, the White Lotus focuses on delivering a light tactile feel and a more neutral sound profile. Depending on whether the user prefers a sharper sound with refined key travel or a mellow tone with effortless key presses, these switches offer diverse options for tactile typing experiences. Ultimately, both switches provide quality components for enthusiasts looking to customize their mechanical keyboards with unique and engaging typing sensations.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch or the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for the bottom out force, sound profile, and overall typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy high-pitched, resonant sounds with a polished, creamy feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a low-pitched, neutral sound with an easy-to-press, mild, and subtle feel, the Durock White Lotus switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
