Gateron Jupiter Banana vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Cherry MX Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Cherry MX Brown mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note the key differences between the two tactile switches. The Jupiter Bananas from Gateron are praised for their high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Browns are known for their subtle tactility and gentle typing experience, offering a more subdued audio feedback. While the Jupiter Banana switch falls under categories like 'Polished', 'High-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Resonant', the MX Brown switch is categorized as 'Textured', 'Bassy', and 'Low-pitched'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Banana and the Cherry MX Brown, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in this regard, with the nylon bottom housing playing a significant role in the overall sound profile.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the Gateron Jupiter Banana stands out with its polycarbonate top housing compared to the Cherry MX Brown's nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown's nylon top housing brings a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a different typing experience compared to the Gateron Jupiter Banana.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Cherry MX Brown switches demonstrate how different housing materials can impact the typing experience. While they both use nylon for the bottom housing, the Gateron Jupiter Banana's polycarbonate top housing offers a unique sound profile that is sharper and more resonant, ideal for those looking for a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound that may appeal to users who prefer a softer typing feel. Both switches provide distinct qualities based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Jupiter Banana has a higher actuation force of 59 grams and a higher bottom out force of 69 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the MX Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the MX Brown more appealing, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more robust typing experience may gravitate towards the Jupiter Banana for its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Jupiter Banana offering a heavier typing feel and the MX Brown providing a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Brown has a longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Jupiter Banana. The shorter travel distance of the Jupiter Banana may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the MX Brown may be preferred by those seeking a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer different experiences due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between them ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana comes in at $2.80, whereas the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00.
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 switch offers a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, characterized by a sharp and crisp sound profile that can be quite immersive. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown provides a bassy and low-pitched sound that is deeper and richer, offering a more subtle auditory feedback. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound characteristics, with the Jupiter Banana switch delivering a more vibrant and distinct sound while the MX Brown switch offering a more subdued and mellow tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch is known for its polished and creamy typing experience, boasting a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This switch provides a sleek and buttery sensation when typing, allowing for effortless keystrokes. In contrast, the Cherry MX Brown switch is described as textured, offering a tactile sensation with noticeable friction when pressed. While some users may prefer this subtle texture for a more distinct tactile feedback, others may prefer the smoother and friction-free typing experience provided by the Jupiter Banana switch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Jupiter Banana and Cherry MX Brown switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Banana switch provides a high-pitched and resonant sound with a polished and creamy typing feel, while the MX Brown switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound with a textured tactile feel. Choosing between the two will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience. If a user enjoys a more vibrant and smooth typing feel, they may prefer the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch, while those who appreciate a subdued sound with a textured tactile feedback may lean towards the Cherry MX Brown switch. Ultimately, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience based on the user's personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Banana tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a high-pitched, resonant sound with a polished and creamy feel, the Gateron Jupiter Banana switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a bassy, low-pitched sound with a textured feel, the Cherry MX Brown switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound profile. Take into account your typing style and preferences to make the choice that best suits your needs.
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