Gateron CM vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and PH Studio Jacaranda both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CM switch breaks away from the norm with its full nylon housing, providing a richer, deeper sound signature along with a smooth typing experience thanks to its factory lube job. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda stands out with its gentle bottom-out and clacky sound feedback, making typing easy on the fingers while still offering an audible response. While the CM switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', and 'Creamy', the Jacaranda is labeled as 'Clacky' and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own set of advantages, but diving deeper into the specifics will help you determine which is the best fit 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
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
Overall, both the Gateron CM and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches feature classic switch housing materials that are known for providing unique sound profiles. The Gateron CM utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. In contrast, the PH Studio Jacaranda uses polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate. While both materials offer their own distinct characteristics, they ultimately serve to enhance the overall typing experience in their respective switches.
Despite their differences in top housing materials, both switches share a commonality in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. This consistency in material results in a similar experience of a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on both the Gateron CM and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches. The absorption of sound by the relatively softer plastic of nylon contributes to a duller and rounder sound, offering a tactile experience that is appreciated by many keyboard enthusiasts. This shared feature highlights the importance of the bottom housing in influencing the overall sound and feel of a switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice of material for the top housing plays a significant role in determining the appearance of the switches. While polycarbonate provides a clear and translucent look that is especially suited for RGB lighting in the PH Studio Jacaranda, the opaque nature of nylon in the Gateron CM offers a more traditional and understated design. This visual distinction showcases how housing materials can impact not only the sound profile but also the overall look and feel of a switch, catering to different preferences and styles within the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. The lighter Jacaranda switch may be preferable for those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, as it requires less force to press down. On the other hand, the heavier Gateron CM switch may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to the average user, but those who are more sensitive to the feel of a key press may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the CM switch for a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, so the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CM linear switch is characterized by a bassy and thocky profile, offering a deep and rich sound experience during key presses. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, delivering a sharp and crisp sound feedback with each press. While the CM switch provides a lower frequency bass tone, the Jacaranda switch leans towards a cleaner and sharper sound profile. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the CM providing a deeper sound and the Jacaranda offering a brighter and crisper sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is known for its buttery and polished typing experience, delivering a smooth and seamless keystroke sensation. With its factory lube job and nylon housing, the CM switch ensures a frictionless typing journey that feels effortless and uniform. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches prioritize a smooth and refined typing feel, with the CM focusing on a creamy and frictionless experience, while the Jacaranda aims for silkiness and smoothness.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the CM switch boasts a bassy and thocky sound profile with a buttery and polished typing feel, the Jacaranda switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a deeper, richer sound with a smooth feel (CM), or a crisper, brighter sound with a silky smooth typing experience (Jacaranda). However, both switches promise a bouncy typing experience with their extended springs, making them suitable choices for enthusiasts seeking a dynamic and responsive typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you appreciate a medium-heavy bottom out force and seek a smooth, bouncy typing sensation with a bassy and thocky sound, the CM switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force for fatigue-free typing, coupled with a clacky sound profile and a uniquely bouncy typing experience, the Jacaranda switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire.
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