Kailh Box White vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and PH Studio Jacaranda offer distinct experiences for different preferences. The Box White is a clicky switch known for its maximum audio feedback, with a crunchy and polished feel that resembles stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Jacaranda is a linear switch that stands out for its gentle bottom-out, producing a clacky sound signature and a uniquely bouncy sensation with its extended 22mm spring. While the Box White appeals to those who enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Jacaranda caters to users looking for a smoother and more fatigue-free typing session. 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
50g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and PH Studio Jacaranda both feature polycarbonate top housings, which offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite having different bottom housing materials, both switches offer a mix of qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the Kailh Box White and PH Studio Jacaranda differ in their overall sound profile due to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings mean that the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction allows for a unique typing experience with each switch, as the qualities of the materials manifest in different ways during use.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and PH Studio Jacaranda play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing feel of each switch. The use of polycarbonate in the top housings creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon bottom housings offer a deeper and fuller sound experience. Despite their differences, both switches provide a balance of qualities that contribute to a satisfying typing experience, making them suitable options for different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Box White has a medium actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Jacaranda has a light actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Jacaranda switch is lighter compared to the Box White switch. The actuation force determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures how much force is needed to press the key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Jacaranda switch might be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Box White switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular in the keyboard market. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance for faster response times. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress may find the longer travel distance to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the user.
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 White comes in at $2.76 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
The Kailh Box White switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched sound profile, akin to stepping on autumn leaves, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving off a crisp and bright feedback with each press. While the sound of a switch is also influenced by the keyboard itself and the keycaps used, both switches offer distinct sound profiles catering to different preferences.
In terms of feel, the Box White switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. Conversely, the Jacaranda switch is noted for its silky feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing sensation that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The extended 22mm spring in the Jacaranda switch further enhances the typing experience, giving each keystroke a unique bouncy sensation.
Overall, the Kailh Box White clicky switch excels in providing maximum audio feedback with its crunchy sound and accented tactility, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch stands out with its gentle bottom-out and clacky sound profile, along with its smooth and silky typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, with both offering quality performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a tactile typing experience with a satisfying auditory feedback, the Box White switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and fatigue-free typing experience with a unique bouncy sensation, the Jacaranda switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a medium bottom out force and a resonant sound profile or a light bottom out force and a clacky sound profile. Remember to also consider the feel of the switches, whether you prefer polished or silky key travel. By taking these factors into account, you'll be able to choose the mechanical keyboard switch that best suits your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
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