Durock Black Lotus vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Black Lotus and the PH Studio Jacaranda are both linear switches that offer unique advantages for different types of typists. The Black Lotus is lauded for its silky smooth feel and precise typing experience, boasting a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. On the other hand, the Jacaranda stands out with its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, making it ideal for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. While the Black Lotus excels in reducing wobble with its unique light column and polished feel, the Jacaranda offers a clacky sound profile and a bouncy sensation thanks to its extended spring. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to individual preferences and typing style; 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
55g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus and PH Studio Jacaranda switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile and feel. The Black Lotus utilizes a Modified PC and UPE Blend for the top housing, giving it a premium and distinct feel, while the Jacaranda uses polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, whereas the Black Lotus's top housing offers a unique and high-quality appearance.
On the other hand, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. The nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This similarity in bottom housing material highlights the importance of a switch's housing in shaping its sound and overall typing experience.
While the Black Lotus and Jacaranda switches differ in their top housing materials, they both prioritize creating a unique and premium typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a balance of impact on both bottom-out sound and feel, as well as sound when releasing a key. Overall, the choice of housing material in switches such as the Black Lotus and Jacaranda plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile, feel, and aesthetics of the switches, catering to the preferences of keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is clear that the Jacaranda is the lighter of the two. The Black Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is significantly lighter. For those who prefer a lighter keystroke for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Jacaranda would be the ideal choice. However, for users who prefer a more substantial push feel, the Black Lotus would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style, with the Black Lotus providing a heavier typing experience and the Jacaranda offering a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Black Lotus offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who enjoy a deeper feel when typing. On the other hand, the Jacaranda's shorter travel distance could appeal to gamers or individuals looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Black Lotus being slightly longer and the Jacaranda being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
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 Durock Black Lotus and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches offer contrasting characteristics. The Black Lotus is known for its smooth and precise keystrokes, reducing wobble for a satisfying typing experience. While specific sound descriptors are not provided for the Black Lotus, its in-switch lighting feature may influence the sound to some degree. On the other hand, the Jacaranda is described as producing a clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback with each press. This difference in sound profiles can cater to different preferences, with the Black Lotus potentially offering a smoother and quieter typing experience compared to the more audible Jacaranda.
Moving on to the feel, both the Black Lotus and Jacaranda switches are noted for their silky smooth typing experience. The Black Lotus is described as offering a buttery and polished feel, enhancing the overall smoothness and reducing resistance during keystrokes. Similarly, the Jacaranda is labeled as silky, indicating an exceptionally smooth typing sensation with minimal resistance. This similarity in feel suggests that users can expect a seamless and effortless typing experience from both switches, making them suitable options for those who prioritize smooth key travel and minimal friction.
Overall, when considering the sound and feel of the Durock Black Lotus and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches, it is evident that they each bring distinct qualities to the table. The Black Lotus shines with its precision, reduced wobble, and potentially quieter typing experience, while the Jacaranda stands out for its clacky sound profile and bouncy sensation attributed to the extended spring. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, users can choose between the smoother and potentially quieter Black Lotus or the more audible and bouncy Jacaranda to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force and smooth, precise keystrokes with a unique light column feature, the Black Lotus may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a bouncy sensation with an extended 22mm spring, and a slightly clacky sound profile for a more tactile experience, the Jacaranda could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and desired feel and sound characteristics.
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