Banana Split Switches. The switch is an important part of the keyboard. They tell the computer which keys you press while typing or playing on the keyboard. There are various switching mechanisms, from mechanical switches to rubber domes.
The banana split switch is a kind of linear automatic switch. We’ve briefly discussed the different types of keyboard switches here. So if you’re unsure what type of switches to invest in your keyboard, check out this article. First, let’s start with the technical data of the switch.
Switch Type Linear
- Body Material Nylon & Polycarbonate Blend
- Shaft Material Polyoxymethylene (POM)
- Lubricated: Yes
- Spring Coated: Gold Plated
- Actuation Force: 62g
- Penetration Force: 63+ g
- Low Noise
- Price per switch ~ USD 0.66
What is a Linear Switch?
A linear switch is a mechanical switch that a keyboard can use to register and enter keystrokes. The linear switch provides little to no tactile feedback when the button is pressed, even if the button press is registered correctly because the switch is so sensitive. As a result, very slight pressure is required for the switch to register a button press. One of the most common types of linear switches is the red switch, named for the color of the switch, to distinguish it from blue switches, which have a click, and brown switches, which are tactile but quiet. Like the red switch, the banana split switch is a type of linear switch.
Banana Split Switch
The switch body contains all the mechanics of the switch and encapsulates the moving parts to ensure proper function and protection from the elements of the outside world. It can be any color, but the body is pink and purple for the banana split switch, a nice change from the usual black and red/blue/tan switches.
The banana Split switch is manufactured with a housing made from a blend of nylon and polycarbonate. It makes it strong, smooth, and pressure-resistant, even with occasional punctures. The case also protects the switch itself from damage from elements such as water and dust.
Shaft material
The switch shaft is the part of the switch that you press to press the button. If the material of the stem is very thin, it may break when pushed. Even in this state, the stem may break if the key is put down or pushed hard. As a result, companies were looking for newer, more robust materials that could be used while still keeping the Switch lightweight.
The Banana Split Switch features a heavy-duty polyoxymethylene stem, allowing him to withstand over 62g of force with a single button press. That’s a good amount. However, when you put all 62g of force into the switch, it also loses its footing. So be careful not to hit the keyboard too hard.
Lubricated
Some switches require the stem and spring to be lubricated to ensure smooth movement when the button is pressed. However, the banana split switch is lightly greased. If you want smoother action, you can add a little more lube. However, most people are fine with a just prelude.
Coating
Gold-plated nibs tend to be more expensive than regular stainless steel nibs. The difference may seem superficial at first glance, but there’s a reason gold-plated nibs are becoming more popular. Gold is more resistant to corrosion and rust than stainless steel. As a result, people with keyboard spring corrosion or rust issues usually prefer gold-plated or gold-plated springs because they are more stable in the long run. But a gold-plated nib is more than just a gold nib. As the plating wears off, banana split switches are susceptible to rust and corrosion. It can render the keyboard unusable, and the switch will need to be replaced.
Overall, the gold plating is worth an introductory lesson in gold nibs, and it’s very affordable, so it’s a good middle ground for anyone with corrosion or rust issues. Actuation force indicates how hard a switch must press to register a keystroke. It differs from the bottom-out power, which is how hard a key must push before the switch touches the keyboard backplate.
The actuation force of the banana split switch is 62 g. If you hit it too hard, the switch shaft may hit the back of the keyboard. The Banana Split’s actuation force is a bit higher than other linear switches, especially the Cherry MX Red, which has only 45g of actuation force.
Sound
The linear switch is especially quiet compared to clicky switches designed to make as much noise as possible (unreasonably). As a result, the sound you’re looking for in a banana split switch is silent. Luckily, the banana split switch passes with flying colors, as all reviews indicate it is noisier than the Cherry MX Reds and Alpaca V2, some of the quietest switches on the market.
Are Banana Split Switches Good?
The Banana Splits are great budget switches. It offers tough nylon, a polycarbonate body, and a gold-plated stem at a very affordable price. Great for gaming as well as regular computer use. If you type a lot (for example, if you’re a writer), we recommend investing in the excellent Cherry MX Red switches because they have a light actuation force and less strain on your fingers while typing; use them without bringing them to the ground. However, if your current keyboard uses a rubber dome or many clicky tactile switches, banana split switches are affordable and reduce the required force. Perfect for upgrades because you can.
Are Banana Split Switches Suitable for Gaming?
Banana Split Switches are linear, which means they have a lower response time and actuation force than traditional rubber dome, click, or tactile switches. In addition, it means less button press time before in-game action occurs. This responsiveness makes it very effective for gaming. Many professional gamers trust Linear his switches because their responsiveness gives them a competitive edge in-game.
Is the banana split switch compatible with MX mounts?
Yes. Banana split switches are designed to be interchangeable with MX-compatible boards. So as long as your keyboard is MX compatible, you don’t need to make any major changes to use the banana split switch.
Is the banana split switch hot-swappable?
Yes! Banana Splits allow you to hot-swap your switches. You can replace the switch without using a soldering iron to connect wires. The keyboard must be unplugged before replacing the switch. Inserting a metal spring into a live electrical device can cause a short circuit and damage the keyboard.
Where can I buy a banana split switch?
Banana split switches are very popular and difficult to find as they are not mass-produced at the same speed as other switches, such as the Cherry MX. Instead, look for keyboard parts at online stores like TheKey Company, Ashkeebs, and even larger online department stores like Alibaba. If it is sold, keep checking back or set up an email alert to see when it’s back in stock.
