HMX EMO vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO 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 HMX EMO and the PH Studio Jacaranda both offer unique features worth considering. The HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky feel, with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force that provides an effortless and bouncy typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, manufactured by KTT, stands out for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers and ensuring fatigue-free typing. Additionally, the Jacaranda offers a sound signature leaning towards the clacky side and features an extended 22mm spring for a uniquely bouncy sensation with each 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
40g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
Both the HMX EMO and the PH Studio Jacaranda feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the passage of light. In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing is essential for achieving a distinct typing experience.
In contrast, the EMO's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing. Similarly, the Jacaranda also uses a nylon bottom housing, showcasing a similar typing experience with its deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon material.
While both switches have differences in their top and bottom housing materials, the impact of each material on the sound profile is split between the bottom and top of the switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a diverse typing experience that combines the unique qualities of both polycarbonate and nylon in each switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is evident that they both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The EMO has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches require a gentle touch to register a keystroke and do not demand a significant amount of force to fully depress the key. This makes them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. Overall, while there is a slight difference in the actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches, the end result is quite similar in terms of typing feel and responsiveness.
Travel distance
The HMX EMO linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same level of travel. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, resulting in similar results for users. Overall, the travel distance for both switches is equal, providing a comfortable and familiar feel for typing tasks.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 HMX EMO linear switch is known for its lively and clacky feel, providing a satisfying and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a distinct sound profile characterized as clacky, producing a sharp and audible feedback with each press. Both switches aim to deliver an immersive auditory experience, making them suitable for users who enjoy a more pronounced and crisp typing sound.
In terms of feel, the EMO switch boasts a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, offering an effortless and bouncy typing experience. In comparison, the Jacaranda switch features a gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, ensuring a fatigue-free typing experience. The Jacaranda's extended 22mm spring adds a uniquely bouncy sensation to each keystroke, elevating the overall typing feel to new heights. While the EMO switch may excel in providing a smooth typing experience, the Jacaranda switch offers a silky smooth feel that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Overall, both the HMX EMO and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the EMO switch emphasizes a lively and clacky sound with a bouncy typing feel, the Jacaranda switch stands out with its distinct clacky sound and silky smooth typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, other factors such as keyboard build and keycap material can further influence the overall typing experience with these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX EMO linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, consider the specific characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a light bottom-out force of 46 grams and a lively, clacky feel with smooth typing experience, then the HMX EMO switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams, a distinctively bouncy typing experience with extended 22mm spring, and a clacky sound signature, then the PH Studio Jacaranda switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall experience. Happy typing!
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