Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the SP-Star Meteor White stand out for their unique characteristics. The Jupiter Banana is a tactile switch that is known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, offering a strong return and consistent feel with its two-stage springs. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White is a linear switch that provides a gentle and subdued typing experience, easy to push with a soft, pitter-patter sound profile. While the Jupiter Banana is categorized as 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant', the Meteor White falls under 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
69g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the SP-Star Meteor White differ in terms of the top housing material used. The Jupiter Banana features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Meteor White utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder tone. While both materials have their own unique characteristics, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile.
On the other hand, both the Jupiter Banana and the Meteor White use nylon for their bottom housing material. As a relatively softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures that users will experience similar typing sensations and sound profiles when engaging with either switch. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly noticeable in the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a consistent typing experience across both keyboards.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboards like the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the SP-Star Meteor White can significantly influence the sound profile and typing experience. While the Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, the Meteor White's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller tone. Despite these differences, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent feel and sound profile across both switches. Ultimately, the decision between these two keyboards comes down to personal preferences regarding sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Banana is the heavier of the two. The Jupiter Banana has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 69 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of force required. On the other hand, the Meteor White has an actuation force that is unknown, but a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it medium-light. This means that the Meteor White requires less force to actuate and bottom out compared to the Jupiter Banana. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Meteor White may be the better option. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Jupiter Banana may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, we see that the Jupiter Banana has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Meteor White's 4 mm. The Jupiter Banana, with its shorter travel distance, would provide a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the Meteor White's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press with a bit more depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences regarding travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 tactile switch is known for its high-pitched and resonant characteristics, producing a sharp and crisp sound with an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a more neutral and thocky sound profile, creating a moderate sound suitable for various purposes. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Jupiter Banana offering a brighter and sharper sound compared to the more mellow and deep sound of the Meteor White.
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 effortless key travel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White switch offers a mild and polished feel, giving a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel and a comfortable middle-ground sensation. Both switches prioritize a smooth and sleek typing experience, with the Jupiter Banana leaning towards a buttery and silky feel while the Meteor White offers a more approachable and comfortable sensation.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Banana provides a high-pitched and polished typing experience with a sharp sound profile, while the Meteor White offers a neutral and thocky sound with a mild and polished feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches provide unique options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific type of experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a high-precision mold, the Gateron Jupiter Banana would be a great choice. The two-stage springs ensure a strong return and consistent feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a gentle sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor White would be the better option. Its easy-to-push keys and soft sound make it a great choice for those who prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for tactility and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
