Kailh Berry vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch both offer unique qualities for different preferences. The Berry switch is favored for its hefty typing experience, springy feel, chalk-like texture, and deep sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Jacaranda switch by KTT is recognized for its gentle bottom-out force, clacky sound signature, extended 22mm spring for a bouncy sensation, and fatigue-free typing experience, appealing to individuals who prioritize comfort and audible feedback. 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
N/A
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
The Kailh Berry and PH Studio Jacaranda both share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. This common top housing material ensures that users can expect similar sound qualities and performance when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Kailh Berry features a nylon bottom housing while the PH Studio Jacaranda also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite both switches using nylon for the bottom housing, each may still offer a slightly different typing experience based on other factors such as spring weight and stem design.
In terms of overall impact on sound and feel, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing material has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. While the use of different housing materials for the top and bottom components of a switch may divide the qualities between the two, both the Kailh Berry and PH Studio Jacaranda offer a unique typing experience that combines the characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon to create a well-rounded sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Berry switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the Jacaranda switch has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it lighter in comparison. The Berry switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, while the Jacaranda switch offers a lighter actuation force for a gentler keystroke. Depending on personal preferences, some may prefer the lighter Jacaranda switch for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier Berry switch for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch both offer relatively short travel distances compared to the more traditional 4.0mm standard. The Berry has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Jacaranda has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, if you prefer a slightly more substantial feel when typing, the Berry switch may be the better option with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, whether you choose the Berry or Jacaranda switch will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Berry linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone, providing a deep and mellow sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, delivering a crisp, bright, and percussive feedback with each press. The Jacaranda also offers a resonant sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Berry offering a deeper tone and the Jacaranda delivering a sharper, more resonant sound.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Berry linear switch is described as textured, providing a noticeable friction when pressed that may appeal to some users. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is characterized as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Berry switch offers a more tactile feel with its textured surface, while the Jacaranda switch prioritizes smoothness and minimal resistance for a comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Berry linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Berry switch provides a deep and mellow sound profile with a textured feel, while the Jacaranda switch delivers a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Berry appealing to those who prefer a more tactile feel and deeper sound, and the Jacaranda catering to users who prioritize smoothness and clarity in both sound and typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering which linear switch to choose between the Kailh Berry and the PH Studio Jacaranda, it's important to analyze your preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a chalk-like texture and a deep sound profile, then the Berry with its 70g bottom out force may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you value a lighter typing feel that is gentle on the fingers, along with a bouncy sensation and a clacky sound profile, then the Jacaranda with its 45g bottom out force and extended 22mm spring may be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on how you prioritize typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force in your mechanical keyboard setup.
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