KTT Ash Gray vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch both offer unique features and qualities. The Ash Gray switch is best known for its light touch and crisp actuation, providing a tactile response that strikes the perfect balance between substantial feedback and a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Jacaranda linear switch stands out with its gentle bottom-out pressure and clacky sound signature, enhanced by an extended 22mm spring that adds a bouncy sensation to each keystroke. While the Ash Gray switch is easy-to-press and delivers a mild and neutral feel, the Jacaranda switch is characterized by its clacky, high-pitched, silky, and resonant qualities. 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
38g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the PH Studio Jacaranda, it is clear that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. The translucency of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic dimension to the switches. However, the Ash Gray and Jacaranda differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Ash Gray utilizing nylon. Typing on a switch with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the KTT Ash Gray and the PH Studio Jacaranda offer similar sound profiles for their top housing, thanks to the use of polycarbonate. This means that users can expect a sharp and clear typing experience with both switches, especially if they are looking to showcase RGB lighting effects. However, where the switches diverge is in the feel and sound of the bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of the Ash Gray creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing, emphasizing a softer and more absorbent quality. On the other hand, the Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing offers a similar typing experience, but with its own unique feel and sound profile that may appeal to users looking for a different tactile experience.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the PH Studio Jacaranda may come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and sound profile. While both switches offer the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housing for a sharp and resonant sound, the difference in bottom housing material can influence the overall typing experience. Whether users prefer the sharper, crisper feel of the Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing or the deeper, fuller sound of the Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing, both switches provide options for customization and individual preference in mechanical keyboard setups.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, we can see that the Ash Gray has a slightly lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Jacaranda's 39 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ash Gray is heavier at 53 grams compared to the Jacaranda's 45 grams. The Ash Gray offers a medium-light typing experience, while the Jacaranda provides a lighter touch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Jacaranda, especially for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Ash Gray may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the key travel 3.5 mm from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that the typing experience between the two switches will be consistent in terms of key travel. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of feel and key travel distance when typing with either the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch or the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 KTT Ash Gray tactile switch is known for its neutral profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and crisp feedback with each keystroke. The sound produced by each switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used, so it's important to consider these elements when choosing a switch based on sound preference.
In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch is known for being easy-to-press and offering a mild typing experience. The gentle resistance and light actuation force of the Ash Gray switch make typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. On the other hand, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, catering to different preferences when it comes to typing feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ash Gray switch provides a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press typing experience, the Jacaranda switch delivers a clacky sound and a silky smooth typing feel. Ultimately, the best switch for you depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, it's important to keep in mind that individual factors such as keyboard configuration and keycap choice can also impact the overall typing experience with these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a blend of tactile feedback that's not too overwhelming, but still noticeable, the KTT Ash Gray switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a gentle bottom-out force, a clacky sound profile, and a bouncy sensation due to the extended spring, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch would be the way to go. Consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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