Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options from Gateron stand out: the Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, and the Zero Degree 0°, a linear switch. The Jupiter Banana is praised for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, thanks to its two-stage springs that ensure a strong return and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° is known for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, providing unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. While the Jupiter Banana offers a tactile typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° focuses on silent typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and needs. 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

Gateron Zero Degree 0° Linear

$2.80 per 10

$6.50

$5.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° are quite similar, as both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housings. The Jupiter Banana utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound.

While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the differentiation in their bottom housings impacts the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether nylon for the Jupiter Banana or Zero Degree 0°, contribute significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. This means that users can expect a deeper and fuller sound with a softer feel when typing on switches utilizing a nylon bottom housing, regardless of the top housing material. In contrast, the impact of the top housing is more noticeable when releasing a key, affecting the sound profile at that moment.

Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches like the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper and crisper sound, the use of nylon in the bottom housing offers a different sound quality. The Jupiter Banana provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing, while the Zero Degree 0° delivers a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound. Users can expect a mix of these characteristics based on the combination of top and bottom housing materials, ultimately influencing the overall feel and sound of each switch.

Weight

The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch which has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Jupiter Banana the heavier of the two. In terms of bottom out force, the Jupiter Banana requires 69 grams while the Zero Degree 0° does not have a specified bottom out force. The Jupiter Banana offers a medium-heavy typing experience, providing a more substantial push feel, while the Zero Degree 0° offers a lighter touch for those looking for a less intense typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference, with weight being a key factor to consider for optimal typing comfort and performance.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. While both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum compared to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, the Jupiter Banana offers a slightly faster response time compared to the Zero Degree 0°. Gamers who prioritize speed may prefer the Jupiter Banana, while those who prefer a more deliberate key press may lean towards the Zero Degree 0°. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and key press feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, offering a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a sound profile that is not provided, making it difficult to compare directly. However, both switches' sound can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so consider these when deciding on the auditory experience you prefer.

Moving on to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch offers a polished and creamy typing experience, resulting in smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. Typing on these switches feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. On the other hand, the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not described, making it challenging to directly compare the tactile sensation to the Jupiter Banana switch. Both switches may offer similar results in terms of feel if they are designed with quality materials and factory lubrication.

In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, as well as its polished and creamy typing experience. The Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, on the other hand, does not have detailed descriptions of its sound and feel, making it hard to directly compare to the Jupiter Banana switch. When choosing between these two switches, consider factors such as sound preference, typing feel, and overall typing experience to determine which one best suits your needs and preferences.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, high-pitched and resonant sound profile, and a polished and creamy typing feel, then the Jupiter Banana may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no bottom out force, a silent typing experience, and unparalleled smoothness and stability, the Zero Degree 0° linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Banana Tactile

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Zero Degree 0° Linear

$6.50

$5.50 per 10

Learn more