TTC Gold Pink vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink 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 TTC Gold Pink and PH Studio Jacaranda both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Pink, with its ultra-light 37g actuation force, provides a fast and effortless typing experience ideal for rapid typists and gamers. Its clacky sound adds a satisfying level of feedback, creating a light and lively typing sensation categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Jacaranda stands out with a gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, ensuring fatigue-free typing and a unique bouncy sensation thanks to its extended 22mm spring. The Jacaranda's clacky sound signature offers crisp and audible feedback, categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', 'Resonant'. 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
37g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Pink and the PH Studio Jacaranda utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize sound quality in their mechanical keyboards. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
In contrast, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing material, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to the polycarbonate top housing. The combination of the two housing materials in each switch allows for a balance in sound quality, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released.
While the TTC Gold Pink and the PH Studio Jacaranda share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the differences lie in how each material impacts the overall sound profile of the switch. The choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and typing experience, with the Gold Pink offering a clearer and more resonant sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, while the Jacaranda provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch have similar actuation forces, with the Gold Pink requiring 37 grams and the Jacaranda needing 39 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that both switches offer a light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing for extended periods of time. The slight difference in actuation force may not be noticeable to the average user, so in terms of performance, users can expect similar results from both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of aesthetics or brand loyalty, as the differences in force are minimal.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, we see that the Gold Pink has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jacaranda has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Gold Pink has a slightly longer travel distance, making it a bit more traditional compared to the Jacaranda. Gamers may prefer the Gold Pink for its slightly longer travel distance, providing a more robust feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Jacaranda offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can appeal to those looking for a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prefer a shorter, more responsive feel or a longer, more traditional key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy feedback with each press. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch also offers a clacky sound profile, delivering a crisp and audible feedback that adds to the overall typing experience. Both switches have a similar sound characteristic, giving users a satisfying auditory response during typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink switch is described as having a mild and feathery typing experience, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue. This switch provides a smooth and effortless keystroke, ensuring a comfortable typing session whether for gaming or work. On the other hand, the Jacaranda switch is characterized as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. Although the feel may differ slightly between the two switches, both offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Gold Pink switch excels in providing a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda switch stands out for its gentle bottom-out and bouncy sensation due to the extended 22mm spring. Whether you prefer a slightly lighter actuation force with a more clacky sound like the Gold Pink or a smoother typing experience with the Jacaranda, both switches offer a high-quality option for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering a mechanical keyboard switch, you should choose the TTC Gold Pink linear switch if you prefer a light, fast, and effortless typing experience, especially for rapid typing or gaming. The Gold Pink provides a satisfying level of feedback with its clacky sound. On the other hand, if you desire a switch that is notably easy on the fingers and offers a uniquely bouncy typing sensation, then the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is the better choice for you. The Jacaranda stands out with its gentle bottom-out force and crisp, clacky sound, making it ideal for fatigue-free typing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.