Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two prominent options to explore are the Gateron Jupiter Banana, a tactile switch, and the KTT Kang White, a linear switch. The Jupiter Banana stands out for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a tactile typing experience with a notable two-stage spring design for consistent feel. On the other hand, the Kang White is celebrated for its poppy linear switch sound and smooth typing experience aided by self-lubricating materials. While the Jupiter Banana offers a polished and high-pitched typing experience, the Kang White provides a low-pitched and neutral sound profile. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and KTT Kang White switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches utilize nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This makes the typing experience on switches with nylon bottom housings more satisfying for those who prefer a softer and less harsh sound while typing.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and KTT Kang White switches are the same, with both featuring polycarbonate and nylon respectively, the distribution of qualities differs between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction can result in a nuanced typing experience that caters to different preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Banana has a heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Kang White. The Jupiter Banana requires 59 grams of actuation force and 69 grams of bottom out force, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Kang White has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which would appeal to individuals who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying force requirements, catering to different preferences based on the user's typing style and desired feel. Ultimately, the lighter actuation force of the Kang White provides a smoother typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch, while the heavier forces of the Jupiter Banana offer a more tactile and satisfying keystroke for those who enjoy a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, which is shorter than the 4mm travel distance of the KTT Kang White linear switch. The Jupiter Banana offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Kang White switch provides a more substantial keypress feel with its longer travel distance. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, with one offering speed and the other offering a more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize response time or keypress depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80, whereas the KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99.
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 qualities, offering a sharp and crisp typing experience that can be immersive and clean. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch is described as low-pitched and neutral, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for a variety of typing preferences. Depending on the user's preference for sound profiles, the Jupiter Banana offers a higher-pitched option while the Kang White provides a more moderate and versatile sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch is praised for its polished and creamy attributes, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The creamy sensation of gliding fingers across the keys effortlessly provides a luxurious feel to typing. In contrast, information about the feel of the KTT Kang White linear switch is not available. Considering the lack of details on the feel of the Kang White switch, it is essential for users to test it out in person to determine if it meets their tactile preferences.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch stands out for its high-pitched and resonant sound profile along with a polished and creamy feel, providing a consistent and tactile typing experience. In comparison, the KTT Kang White linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, but information on its feel is unknown. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the unique qualities of the Jupiter Banana for a softer backlight effect and enhanced springs, or the self-lubricating material of the Kang White for unparalleled smoothness. Ultimately, testing both switches in person will provide the best insight into which option suits a newcomer's mechanical keyboard preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a high-pitched, resonant sound profile, as well as a polished and creamy feel, then the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, and a smooth typing experience due to self-lubricating material, then the KTT Kang White switch would be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound profile.
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