Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HMX Xinhai offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, making it ideal for those seeking a more polished and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai is a linear switch crafted with a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched sound, appealing to those who prefer a bouncy and clacky feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them stand out, but ultimately the choice between them depends on personal 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
37g
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
3.40 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
Both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through and create a visually appealing aesthetic. With this similarity in housing material, users can expect a consistent sound and feel when typing on both switches.
On the other hand, the Jupiter Banana and Xinhai differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Jupiter Banana using nylon and the Xinhai also opting for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housing. Although both switches feature the same bottom housing material, the impact of the bottom housing will be felt more prominently in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, while both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and HMX Xinhai share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing to produce a sharp and resonant sound, they diverge in their choice of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a different sound profile when typing on each switch. The material composition of the housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of mechanical keyboards, making it crucial for enthusiasts to consider these differences when selecting a switch that suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Jupiter Banana is the heavier option with an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams. The Jupiter Banana provides a more medium-heavy typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Xinhai offers a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on personal preference - the heavier Jupiter Banana for a more substantial typing experience and the lighter Xinhai for extended use without fatigue. Regardless of the force variances, both switches provide optimal functionality based on individual typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience overall.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in travel distance. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This consistency in travel distance ensures a comparable tactile and linear typing experience for users of both switches. Overall, both switches offer a standard travel distance that provides a satisfactory typing feel for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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 tactile switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound, offering a sharp and snappy auditory experience. If you prefer a more immersive and higher-pitched sound, the Jupiter Banana may be the better choice for you, whereas those who enjoy a crisp, bright, and percussive sound might lean towards the Xinhai.
Moving on to feel, the Jupiter Banana switch is described as polished and creamy, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the creamy sensation of these switches allows for effortless keystrokes, akin to gliding your fingers across the keys. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch is noted for its bouncy feel, offering a spring-like feedback that gives keys a lively sensation when pressed. Similar to the Jupiter Banana, the Xinhai also provides a creamy typing experience, ensuring a smooth and buttery touch with each keystroke.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jupiter Banana excels in producing a high-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy typing feel, the Xinhai stands out for its clacky sound profile and bouncy feedback, also accompanied by a creamy typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing experience, but both options guarantee a premium mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile typing feel with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, then the Jupiter Banana may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a linear typing feel with a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, then the Xinhai might be more suited to your taste. Consider your preference for sound profiles, such as high-pitched and resonant for the Jupiter Banana, or clacky for the Xinhai, as well as your preference for typing feel, whether it be polished, creamy, bouncy, or creamy. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on what type of typing experience you value most.
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