Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the PH Studio Jacaranda mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch that offers a lively and audible feedback along with a smooth tactile sensation, perfect for those who enjoy a poppy and clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda is a linear switch known for its gentle bottom-out and extended spring, providing a silky and bouncy typing experience with a crisp and clacky sound profile. While both switches have their unique qualities, it ultimately comes down to personal preference on whether you prefer a tactile or linear typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the PH Studio Jacaranda, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those looking to enhance their typing experience with a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. As such, users can expect similar auditory and aesthetic benefits from both the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Jacaranda in terms of their polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, the V3 Cream Blue Pro features a nylon bottom housing, while the Jacaranda also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate top housing. Both switches benefit from the characteristics of nylon in their bottom housing, offering users a unique tactile and auditory experience when typing.
When considering the overall typing experience with these switches, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials are distributed differently. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, showcasing the impact of the nylon housing on the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when a key is released, allowing users to enjoy a well-rounded sensory experience when typing on either the V3 Cream Blue Pro or the Jacaranda.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, one notable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Jacaranda's lighter 39 grams. Similarly, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams, heavier than the Jacaranda's 45 grams. This means that the V3 Cream Blue Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Jacaranda offers a lighter and smoother keystroke. Some users may prefer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for a more tactile and precise typing experience, while others may opt for the Jacaranda for a lighter and easier typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Jacaranda has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Blue Pro. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the slight variation may be noticeable to users who are particularly sensitive to key travel. Overall, those looking for a slightly deeper key press may prefer the Jacaranda, while those seeking a slightly shallower key press may opt for the V3 Cream Blue Pro. Despite the difference in travel distance, both switches offer a tactile typing experience that many users appreciate.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is known for its poppy and clacky sound profile, offering a harmonious blend of audibility and tactile sensation. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound signature, providing a crisp and audible feedback with each keystroke. While both switches offer a distinct sound profile, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of the specific type of clicky sound that one prefers during typing sessions.
In the realm of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is praised for its accented and bouncy tactile feedback, providing a satisfying amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, the switch is described as snappy and polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its silky smoothness, offering an exceptionally smooth typing feel that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Again, the decision between these switches hinges on whether one prefers a bouncy and lively tactile feel or a slick and frictionless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Cream Blue Pro provides a poppy and tactile sound profile with accented and bouncy tactile feedback, the Jacaranda switch stands out for its clacky sound signature and silky smooth typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's individual preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, one can expect similar quality and satisfaction regardless of which switch is chosen, as both offer exceptional characteristics within their respective categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, when you're considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch or the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-light tactile switch with a poppy and clacky sound profile coupled with a creamy sensation, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is an excellent choice, especially if you value affordability without compromising quality. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch that is easy on the fingers, produces a crisp and clacky sound, and offers a uniquely bouncy typing experience due to the extended 22mm spring, then the Jacaranda is the switch for you. Whether you prioritize a lively feedback or a smooth typing experience, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard world. Ultimately, the decision rests on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you as you embark on your mechanical keyboard journey.
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