KTT Cream Yellow vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Cream Yellow and the PH Studio Jacaranda mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Cream Yellow is known for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Jacaranda offers a gentle bottom-out force and a high-pitched, silky sound profile, making it a more comfortable and quiet option for prolonged typing sessions. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the PH Studio Jacaranda, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housings of both switches allows for a clear and resonant sound profile, especially ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency. This similarity in housing material ensures that regardless of which switch is chosen, users can expect comparable sound characteristics and aesthetics in terms of the top housing.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. While the Cream Yellow features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, the Jacaranda also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. This similarity in bottom housing material means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. Users can expect a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, offering a unique tactile response compared to switches with different bottom housing materials.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings for both the Cream Yellow and Jacaranda switches ensures a harmonious balance of sound characteristics and tactile feedback. The split qualities of the housing materials in each switch, with the top housing impacting the sound upon releasing a key and the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, offer users a well-rounded typing experience that caters to their preferences for sound profile and typing feel. When deciding between the Cream Yellow and Jacaranda, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, thanks to the shared housing materials used in both switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is clear that the Jacaranda switch is the lighter of the two. The Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. The Cream Yellow falls in the medium range in terms of force, while the Jacaranda is on the lighter end of the spectrum. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Jacaranda would be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Cream Yellow would be the preferred choice due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance plays a significant role in the typing experience, as it determines how far the key must be pressed before registering a keystroke. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and typing performance. Whether choosing the Cream Yellow or the Jacaranda, typists can enjoy a consistent and comfortable typing experience with a standard travel distance of 3.5 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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
The Cream Yellow and Jacaranda switches both exhibit a clacky sound profile, offering sharp and crisp feedback with every keypress. While the Cream Yellow produces a resonant audio feedback, the Jacaranda has a high-pitched sound that adds to its immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Cream Yellow provides a bouncy sensation due to its unique spring design, giving keystrokes a lively and elastic feedback. On the other hand, the Jacaranda offers a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance for effortless typing. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their distinct qualities, whether it be through sound or feel. If you prefer a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, the Cream Yellow would be a great choice, while the Jacaranda would be ideal for those looking for a high-pitched sound and silky smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, the right choice between these switches would depend on your personal preference and typing style, but rest assured, both options will provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a medium bottom out force and a distinctively clacky sound, then the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its shortened bottom-out distance and bouncy typing feel, you can enjoy a satisfying auditory and tactile experience while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a gentle, fatigue-free typing experience with a crisp and audible feedback, then the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Its extended 22mm spring provides a uniquely bouncy sensation, adding an extra level of enjoyment to your typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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