Durock Blue Lotus vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch with the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it's evident that both switches offer unique features catered to different preferences. The Blue Lotus is praised for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making it ideal for those who prefer a marked tactile feel and enjoy a snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Jacaranda stands out for its gentle bottom-out and distinct sound signature, providing a fatigue-free typing experience with a clacky feedback. While the Blue Lotus offers captivating visual appeal with its detachable light column for RGB illumination, the Jacaranda excels in providing a bouncy sensation with its extended 22mm spring. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 long spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus and the PH Studio Jacaranda both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. The Blue Lotus features a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, which provides a premium feel and creates a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Jacaranda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. While both materials are known for their clarity and resonance, the Blue Lotus may provide a slightly different tactile sensation due to its blend of materials.
Both switches also share a nylon bottom housing material, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material in the bottom housing of both the Blue Lotus and the Jacaranda contributes to a duller and rounder sound, creating a more satisfying typing experience. Despite having different top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent typing feel between the two switches. This commonality allows users to expect a similar level of sound and tactility when using either switch.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Blue Lotus and the PH Studio Jacaranda may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The Blue Lotus's combination of modified PC and UPE Blend top housing offers a unique typing experience, while the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, users may find that the differences in housing materials between these switches result in distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch. The Blue Lotus requires 55 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Jacaranda only needs 39 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter switch option. The difference in weight between the two switches can significantly impact the typing experience. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Jacaranda for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may find the heavier force of the Blue Lotus provides a more substantial and satisfying typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, slightly longer 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 that are becoming popular among users, particularly gamers looking for quicker response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different typing or gaming experience. Users who prefer a more responsive feel may opt for the Blue Lotus with its slightly shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keypresses may lean towards the Jacaranda with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance and users may find that they get similar results with either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue 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 Blue 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
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is known for its accentuated and snappy feel, providing users with a tactile experience that is both prominent and responsive. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and ensuring a comfortable typing session. When it comes to sound, the Blue Lotus switches produce a bassy tone, while the Jacaranda switches offer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile. However, both switches deliver unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, selecting between the Blue Lotus and Jacaranda switches will depend on whether you prioritize a more tactile typing experience or a smoother feel, as well as on your personal preference for sound profiles. Consider your typing style and preferences to determine which switch will best suit your needs for an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, consider your preference for tactile intensity and swift responsiveness versus a gentle bottom-out and unique bouncy sensation. If you enjoy a marked tactile feel and snappy responsiveness, the Blue Lotus with its medium-heavy bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a fatigue-free typing experience with a light bottom out force and a uniquely bouncy sensation, the Jacaranda linear switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should depend on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you desire.
Mentioned in this article
