Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offer compelling options that cater to different typing preferences. The Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a satisfying tactile feedback due to its unique two-stage spring design. This switch is known for its polished, high-pitched, creamy resonance, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate the feel of tactile feedback while typing, ideal for both gamers and typists alike. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) is a linear switch that boasts a unique PA12 top housing, delivering a softer acoustics profile paired with a POM stem that ensures a crisp, higher-pitched sound. This switch caters to those who prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke and can be particularly appealing for gamers seeking rapid response times without the texture of tactile feedback. Both switches have their own charm and functional strengths; 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

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$2.80 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), a significant contrast emerges in their top housings. The Jupiter Banana features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for enhancing sound clarity due to its stiffness. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is especially noticeable during key release. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting effects, allowing for a vibrant illumination of the switch. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes a nylon top housing. Nylon’s softer plastic composition absorbs sound, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which contributes to a more muted auditory experience when the key is released. Thus, while the top housing materials differ fundamentally in their acoustic properties, they cater to distinct sound preferences among users.

Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, creating similarities in the overall sound experience for the two models. Nylon's typical absorption qualities manifest in both switches, contributing to a sound profile that is rounder and less sharp. This shared material ensures that, regardless of the contrasting top housing, the key press experience is cohesive. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly crucial, as it dictates the bottom-out sound and feel during usage. Therefore, both the Jupiter Banana and Xinhai (Heavy) will elicit a familiar sensation when the keys are pressed down, but with their individual characters being markedly shaped by their top housings.

Ultimately, the divergence in sound characteristics between the two switches—stemmed from their top housing materials—allows users to choose based on their preferred auditory experience. The Jupiter Banana, with its polycarbonate top, provides a crisper sound for those who enjoy clarity and brightness, while the Xinhai (Heavy), with its nylon top, offers a warmer and softer auditory experience. However, the shared nylon in the bottom housings unites these switches through a common sound foundation, creating a deeper and fuller bottom-out experience that both models can deliver, even in the presence of their differing top materials. This interplay between the materials presents a unique opportunity for users to match their switch preferences with the desired sound profile in typing and gaming situations.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different user preferences. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, which places it in the medium category. This means that the Jupiter Banana requires a bit more force to actuate as well as to bottom out, which could provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Conversely, the Xinhai is the lighter option, making it more suitable for prolonged typing sessions or for those who favor less resistance. Ultimately, while both switches have their strengths, the Jupiter Banana may appeal more to those seeking a heavier tactile feedback, whereas the Xinhai offers a gentler touch suitable for extended use.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch share the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that users pressing down on keys equipped with either switch will experience a similar travel distance, resulting in comparable tactile feedback and activation height. With both switches offering the same travel distance, you can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key depression, which could appeal to those seeking uniformity in their keyboard feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the Jupiter Banana stands out with its distinctly high-pitched and resonant auditory profile. It produces a sharp, crisp sound that enhances the typing experience for those who prefer a more articulate feedback without the deeper and richer tones found in other switches. Meanwhile, the sound characteristics of the Xinhai (Heavy) are not explicitly detailed; however, its use of a PA12 top housing suggests that it may offer a softer acoustics profile, potentially creating a more subdued sound compared to the lively resonance of the Jupiter Banana.

In terms of feel, the Jupiter Banana excels with its polished and creamy texture, delivering a smooth and refined experience that allows for effortless key travel. The enhanced two-stage springs contribute to a tactile feedback that is enjoyable and consistent during use. In contrast, the feel of the Xinhai (Heavy) is not elaborated upon; thus, any expectations regarding its tactile feedback or general smoothness remain unknown.

In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a bright and resonant sound combined with a luxurious feel, making it an enticing option for users who enjoy a tactile experience with stringent acoustic qualities. The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, while lacking detailed descriptions for sound and feel, hints at a more subdued auditory experience and leaves much to the imagination regarding its tactile feedback. For those seeking similar auditory and tactile experiences, the Jupiter Banana is clear in its offerings, while the Xinhai (Heavy) will need further exploration to fully understand its capabilities.

Conclusion

In summary, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, your choice should hinge on your specific typing preferences and styles. If you enjoy tactile feedback in your typing experience and appreciate a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Jupiter Banana may be your best bet. Its high-pitched and resonant sound profile works well for those who prefer a sharp, crisp auditory experience while typing. Moreover, the polished and creamy feel of the Jupiter Banana enhances the typing experience by providing smooth and effortless key travel, making it particularly well-suited for extended typing sessions or for people who type with a lighter touch. On the other hand, if you are inclined towards a linear switch that offers a subtly sophisticated and precise performance, the Xinhai (Heavy) would be the switch for you. Boasting a medium bottom-out force and a crisp, higher-pitched sound, the Xinhai suits users who value a more consistent and smooth keypress without the tactile bump. This switch can be ideal for gamers or users who prefer a more uniform feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice boils down to whether you desire tactile feedback and a pronounced acoustic experience or a smooth, linear typing sensation.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more