Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options to compare and contrast are the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the PH Studio Jacaranda. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, a linear switch, is favored for its budget-friendly yet high-quality construction, offering a unique poppy and clacky sound accompanied by exceptional smoothness. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda, also a linear switch, impresses with its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force that ensures comfortable typing without fatigue. While both switches are known for their clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda stands out with its extended 22mm spring that adds a bouncy sensation to every keystroke. 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
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the PH Studio Jacaranda, it is evident that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users who prioritize clear and resonant tones. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboard. While both keyboards share this feature, their overall aesthetics and design may vary.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the V3 Cream Black Pro opts for nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that provides a different typing experience compared to polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Jacaranda also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, mirroring the V3 Cream Black Pro's emphasis on a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite their differences, both keyboards offer a unique typing experience based on their choice of bottom housing material.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the PH Studio Jacaranda showcases a balanced approach to sound quality and typing experience. While the top housings contribute to the key release sound, the bottom housings have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. By strategically incorporating different housing materials, these keyboards cater to a diverse range of user preferences, whether they prioritize sharp, clear tones or deep, full sound profiles. Ultimately, the choice between these keyboards may come down to personal sound and typing preferences, as both offer unique qualities that enhance the overall user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is clear that they differ in terms of weight. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a medium-heavy actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Jacaranda has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. Some users may appreciate the lighter weight of the Jacaranda switch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, while others may prefer the heavier weight of the V3 Cream Black Pro for a more pronounced typing feel. In either case, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches offer users the opportunity to choose based on their personal preference for typing feedback.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The V3 Cream Black Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Jacaranda. The difference of 0.2 mm may not seem significant, but it can affect the feel and responsiveness of the switches. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the V3 Cream Black Pro, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Jacaranda. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a more compact typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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 comparing the sound of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch to the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, the Cream Black Pro is described as having a high-pitched and unique poppy sound while the Jacaranda produces a crisp and clacky feedback with a resonant quality. The Cream Black Pro leans towards a sharper sound profile, while the Jacaranda offers a bright and percussive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Cream Black Pro may appeal to those who enjoy a higher-pitched sound, while the Jacaranda caters to users looking for a sharp and resonant typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Cream Black Pro boasts a creamy and smooth typing sensation, thanks to its lubricated construction, providing a silky and effortless keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Jacaranda offers a silky typing feel, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance during key presses. While the Cream Black Pro is described as bouncy and polished, providing a lively and refined typing experience, the Jacaranda focuses on delivering a smooth and responsive typing feel.
Considering all available information, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cream Black Pro delivers a high-pitched and creamy typing experience with a poppy sound, the Jacaranda provides a clacky and silky typing feel with a resonant sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and typing sensation, ensuring both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is important to consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and enjoy a smooth and clacky typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, the V3 Cream Black Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force, a bouncy and silky typing experience with a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, the Jacaranda switch may better suit your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when making your decision.
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