TTC Flame Red vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Flame Red and PH Studio Jacaranda are both linear switches, offering smooth key presses without tactile feedback. The Flame Red is known for its stunning light diffuser, making it an ideal choice for those looking to enhance the aesthetics of their backlit, RGB keyboard. It provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, falling under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Jacaranda by PH Studio stands out with a gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. It offers a clacky sound profile and an extended 22mm spring, giving each key press a bouncy sensation. Categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Resonant', the Jacaranda provides a unique 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
54g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the PH Studio Jacaranda, we can see that the Flame Red utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Jacaranda features polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The nylon top housing of the Flame Red creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic composition, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Jacaranda's top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. This feature is not present in the Flame Red's nylon top housing, which lacks the clear properties of polycarbonate. However, both switches share the classic switch housing material of nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile when typing on the switches. While the materials used in the top housing of each switch may differ, the bottom housing material contributes significantly to the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Flame Red and the PH Studio Jacaranda comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic design. The Flame Red offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its nylon top and bottom housing, while the Jacaranda provides a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, making them suitable options for those seeking specific sound profiles and visual aesthetics in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda is the lighter option. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which classifies it as a light switch. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Jacaranda may appeal to those who prefer a gentler typing experience and may lead to less fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Flame Red could provide a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional depth. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may lean towards the Jacaranda switch with the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Flame Red switch with the longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique feel and it ultimately depends on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 Flame Red linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Jacaranda linear switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound, creating a crisp and percussive auditory feedback with each keystroke. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the overall sound aesthetic desired for the keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and refined keypress with reduced friction. In contrast, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences, with the Flame Red leaning towards a weightier and smoother feel, while the Jacaranda offers a bouncier sensation with its extended 22mm spring.
Considering all the available information, the Flame Red linear switch is ideal for those looking for a visually appealing option with a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch stands out for its gentle bottom-out force, bouncy typing sensation, and clacky sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and visual aesthetics, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a visually stunning switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a clacky sound profile, the Flame Red may be the best choice for you, especially if you have a backlit RGB keyboard. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light bottom-out force for fatigue-free typing, a bouncy sensation with an extended spring, and a crisp and clacky sound profile, then the Jacaranda might be the ideal switch for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose based on what matters most to you in terms of feel, sound, and aesthetics.
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