TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the PH Studio Jacaranda offer two distinct typing experiences. The Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch, perfect for those who prefer a subtle and nuanced feedback while typing. With a gentle tactile bump and a quiet sound profile, this switch allows users to remain focused and immersed in their tasks without distraction. On the other hand, the Jacaranda is a linear switch that stands out with its easy bottom-out feel and clacky sound signature. The extended 22mm spring in the Jacaranda provides a bouncy sensation, elevating the typing experience to new levels. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
The TTC Gold Brown Pro and PH Studio Jacaranda both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. While both switches share this housing material for their tops, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The Gold Brown Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer and sound-absorbing properties. In contrast, the Jacaranda also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities in terms of sound but potentially differing in the overall feel and impact.
Despite the similarities in their top housing materials, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and PH Studio Jacaranda may have variations in sound and performance due to their different bottom housing materials. While both switches deliver a sharper sound profile with their polycarbonate top housings, the Gold Brown Pro's characteristics may be influenced more by its nylon bottom housing, providing a distinct feel and sound when typing. On the other hand, the Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, potentially offering a different typing experience compared to the Gold Brown Pro's bottom housing. These differences in housing materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of each switch, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and PH Studio Jacaranda play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the distinction lies in their bottom housings. The Gold Brown Pro's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing offers a similar experience. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials influences the overall typing experience, from the impact of bottom-out sounds to the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a deeper one, the choice between these switches will depend on how the housing materials align with your typing preferences.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch which has an actuation force of 39 grams, making the Jacaranda lighter in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Brown Pro has no specific information available while the Jacaranda has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered light. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Jacaranda for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gold Brown Pro. Both switches offer a unique typing experience depending on the user's preferences with regards to actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is 3.8 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Jacaranda switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Brown Pro. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Jacaranda being on the shallower end. Gamers may prefer the Jacaranda for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Gold Brown Pro with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and how each individual user values keypress depth versus speed of response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is often described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying "thocky" sound that is not overly loud or distracting. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant sound, delivering a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each keystroke. While the Gold Brown Pro leans towards a softer, more mellow tone, the Jacaranda provides a more vibrant and percussive sound experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is often praised for its polished, silky, and subtle typing experience. With a mild and stepped feel, this switch offers a refined and smooth keystroke that is gentle on the fingers and suitable for shared spaces. In contrast, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch is also described as silky, emphasizing an exceptionally smooth typing feel with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches share the silky descriptor, indicating that users can expect a luxurious and friction-free typing experience with either choice.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Brown Pro provides a subtle tactile feedback with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while offering a polished and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Jacaranda switch stands out with its clacky and resonant sound, along with a silky smooth typing feel that minimizes resistance. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring users can find the perfect match for their mechanical keyboard needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch or the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you value a subtle, nuanced tactile feedback with a subdued sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro is the way to go. It offers a gentle typing experience that lets you focus on your tasks without distraction. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda is the switch for you. Its extended 22mm spring provides a unique sensation with each keystroke, enhancing your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preference for tactility and sound.
Mentioned in this article
