Gateron Beer vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and PH Studio Jacaranda offer unique experiences for users seeking different tactile sensations. The Gateron Beer, with its translucent green housing, provides a refreshing and light touch with a stepped tactility that is easy to press. Its characteristic clacky sound adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, manufactured by KTT, boasts a gentle bottom-out force and an extended 22mm spring for a bouncy sensation with each keystroke. While both switches share a clacky sound signature, the Jacaranda offers a silky and resonant feedback. If you prefer a lightweight and easy-to-press switch, the Gateron Beer might be the choice for you. However, if you're looking for a switch with a unique bouncy sensation and gentle bottom-out force, the PH Studio Jacaranda could be the ideal option. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Beer and the PH Studio Jacaranda feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. This results in a clear and resonant sound when typing on switches with this material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches designed to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through and create visually appealing effects. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate in the top housing, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences when typing on these switches.
In contrast, the Gateron Beer uses a polycarbonate bottom housing while the PH Studio Jacaranda features a nylon bottom housing. The difference in material significantly impacts the sound profile of the switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the Beer's bottom housing contributes to a clearer and sharper sound when bottoming out, while the softer nylon of the Jacaranda creates a deeper and fuller sound. The bottom housing material plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience, affecting the feel and sound when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, the choice of material for the top and bottom housings of a switch can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both the Gateron Beer and the PH Studio Jacaranda share the use of polycarbonate in the top housing, their differences in bottom housing material lead to distinct typing experiences. Whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound, the housing materials of these switches cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Beer and the PH Studio Jacaranda will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is evident that the Beer is slightly lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches fall within the light category, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. The difference in bottom out force between the two switches is minimal, but the Jacaranda does require slightly less force to trigger a keystroke. Ultimately, whether one switch is preferred over the other will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it can be seen that the Beer has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Jacaranda's 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular for their faster response times, especially preferred by gamers. The difference of 0.1 mm may not be significant for some users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Jacaranda may provide a more satisfying tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch are described as having a "clacky" sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, the Jacaranda also has a "high-pitched" and "resonant" sound profile, offering a more immersive auditory experience compared to the Beer. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so while they may have similar base characteristics, the overall sound experience may differ based on other components.
Moving on to feel, the Beer switch is commended for being easy to press, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a low-impact typing feel. It also features a stepped tactility, providing a subtler tactile feedback compared to more pronounced tactile switches. On the other hand, the Jacaranda switch is described as "silky," offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance during key presses. This silky feel enhances the overall typing comfort and ease on the fingers, making it a favorable option for extended typing sessions.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While both switches have a clacky sound signature, the Jacaranda stands out with its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, providing a more immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Beer switch is easy to press with a stepped tactility, while the Jacaranda offers a silky smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a unique clacky sound signature, the Beer switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a gentle bottom-out force and a bouncy typing sensation with a crisp and clacky sound, the Jacaranda switch could be the ideal option for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the specific characteristics that you value in a mechanical keyboard switch. Happy typing!
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