Bsun Avocado vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Avocado and PH Studio Jacaranda offer distinct experiences that cater to different preferences. The Avocado is praised for its tactile feedback, featuring a satisfying bump and buttery downstroke that is both responsive and enjoyable. In contrast, the Jacaranda is a linear switch known for its gentle bottom-out force, producing a clacky sound with each press and incorporating a unique 22mm spring for a bouncy sensation. While the Avocado leans towards an invigorating and sharp feel, the Jacaranda provides a silky and resonant typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different typing styles and 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
45g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Avocado and the PH Studio Jacaranda feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature, which enhances resonance and clarity. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. With this similarity in housing material, users can expect a consistent sound profile and aesthetic appeal from both switches when it comes to their top housings.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Avocado and the Jacaranda utilize nylon, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. By using nylon for the bottom housing, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience by providing a satisfying sound and feel while typing. This common choice in bottom housing material indicates a shared focus on creating a pleasant typing experience for users.
While both switches share similarities in their choice of housing materials for the top and bottom, the impact of these materials varies based on which part of the switch is being utilized. The qualities of the bottom housing primarily influence the sound and feel when pressing down on a key, creating a distinctive bottom-out experience. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. By understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile, users can appreciate the nuanced differences in typing experience between the Bsun Avocado and the PH Studio Jacaranda.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, which has an actuation force of 39 grams. On the other hand, the Avocado also has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Jacaranda has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Avocado offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier tactile feedback, while the Jacaranda provides a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. For those who prefer a lighter switch for extended use, the Jacaranda would be the better option, while those looking for a more tactile and heavier typing experience may lean towards the Avocado. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Avocado may appeal to those who prefer a slightly quicker key press, while the Jacaranda may be more suitable for individuals who enjoy a slightly deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key sensitivity.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Avocado switch offers a mild and neutral sound signature, providing an unobtrusive background noise while typing. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a distinctly clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy auditory feedback with each press. The sound preference between the two switches can be subjective and may also depend on factors such as keyboard build and keycap material.
Moving on to the feel, the Avocado switch is noted for its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, offering a pronounced and snappy typing experience without being overwhelming. Meanwhile, the Jacaranda linear switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimized resistance when pressing or releasing keys. The feel of each switch reflects a different tactile experience, catering to the preferences of users who prioritize either a more tactile or smoother typing sensation.
In conclusion, while the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of both sound and feel, the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preference. If you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump and neutral sound, the Avocado switch may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing feel with a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda linear switch could be the perfect fit for you. It's essential to consider these subjective qualities along with personal typing preferences before making a decision on which switch to incorporate into your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Avocado tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a pronounced feedback and medium-heavy bottom out force, the Avocado may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a gentle bottom-out and a bouncy sensation provided by the extended spring, the Jacaranda might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize tactility and medium-heavy actuation force or prefer a lighter, linear switch with a unique bouncy feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
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