Kailh Box Royal vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and the PH Studio Jacaranda offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Box Royal is renowned for its sharp and binary tactility, making it perfect for those seeking an aggressive tactile feedback. With a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, these switches are ideal for users looking for a more pronounced keypress sensation. On the other hand, the Jacaranda linear switch stands out for its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, providing a comfortable typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. Producing a crisp and clacky sound with each press, the Jacaranda is also equipped with an extended 22mm spring, giving keystrokes a bouncy feel that enhances the overall typing experience. These distinctions highlight the unique characteristics of each switch, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the PH Studio Jacaranda, it is clear that there are notable differences in the sound profile each material creates. The Box Royal, with its nylon top housing, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of polycarbonate's stiffer nature that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. This distinction in sound profile showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
Despite their differences in sound profile, both the Box Royal and Jacaranda utilize nylon for their bottom housings, emphasizing the material's ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile with its softer nature. This similarity in bottom housing material showcases how both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through the use of nylon. However, it is important to note that the division of qualities between the top and bottom housing of a switch can have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel when typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and the PH Studio Jacaranda will come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Box Royal's nylon housing creates a rounder and deeper sound, while the Jacaranda's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences, showcasing how the selection of housing materials can greatly impact the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether one prefers a softer and fuller sound or a sharper and more resonant sound, both the Box Royal and Jacaranda deliver quality typing experiences through their carefully selected housing materials.
Weight
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch's lighter 39 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Royal also requires more pressure at 70 grams, while the Jacaranda is lighter at 45 grams. This means that the Box Royal provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience, while the Jacaranda offers a lighter and more effortless keystroke. Some users may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Box Royal for a more satisfying typing feel, while others may opt for the lighter force of the Jacaranda for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the 3.5 mm travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. However, the Box Royal provides a slightly deeper press compared to the Jacaranda. If you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and tactility, the Box Royal might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly quicker key press, the Jacaranda could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 Box Royal 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 Box Royal tactile switch is best suited for those who prefer a higher-pitched and sharp sound profile, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a clacky and resonant sound experience. The Box Royal provides a more aggressive tactility and feedback compared to the Jacaranda, resulting in a louder and crisper sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jacaranda's extended 22mm spring enhances the bouncy sensation and overall typing experience, contributing to a unique auditory feedback that is crisp, bright, and percussive. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches comes down to personal taste and the overall setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is characterized by a sharp tactile bump that offers a high feedback intensity, making each keypress distinct and satisfying. In contrast, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch provides a silky smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The Jacaranda's gentle bottom-out of 43.5g ensures a fatigue-free typing experience, while the Box Royal's strong and crisp tactile bump gives a more pronounced and precise tactile feedback. The choice between these two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a smoother and lighter typing feel or a more intense tactile response.
Overall, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is ideal for those seeking a highly tactile and sharp sound and feel, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch caters to individuals looking for a smoother typing experience with a clacky and resonant sound profile. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer unique qualities that enhance the typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance from these high-quality mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and tactility. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a sharp and aggressive tactility with a higher pitched sound profile, the Box Royal may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter bottom out force and prefer a smooth and fatigue-free typing experience with a clacky and resonant sound profile, the Jacaranda linear switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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