HMX Gravel vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two noteworthy options are the HMX Gravel and the PH Studio Jacaranda, both linear switches that cater to different typing preferences. The Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing feel, offering a medium-light actuation force that provides an effortlessly responsive experience, perfect for those who prioritize a sleek and consistent keypress. In contrast, the Jacaranda, manufactured by KTT, offers a notable 43.5g bottom-out force that enhances typing comfort while delivering a clacky and resonant sound signature, giving each keystroke a certain crispness. Moreover, the Jacaranda features an extended 22mm spring, which provides a unique bouncy sensation, adding lively feedback that many users find enjoyable. While both switches can significantly enhance your typing experience, they cater to different preferences—whether you desire a smoother touch or a more audible, tactile response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
POM
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
The HMX Gravel and PH Studio Jacaranda both feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide a distinct auditory experience. Polycarbonate is valued for its rigidity, contributing to a clearer and crisper sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. Users of both switches can expect a sharp, high-pitched sound due to this material, coupled with the visual appeal of translucency, which is particularly advantageous for RGB lighting setups. Consequently, whether you are using the Gravel or the Jacaranda, you will achieve a similar level of brightness and clarity in sound when typing, enriching the aesthetic pleasure of a keyboard equipped with vibrant lighting.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, another common material in switch construction. The choice of nylon results in a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound instead of reflecting it. This characteristic brings a warm, rounded quality to the auditory experience, allowing for a satisfying typing feel that contrasts with the sharper notes produced by the polycarbonate top. In both the Gravel and the Jacaranda, the nylon bottom allows users to enjoy a rich sound regardless of the clear and resonant traits of the polycarbonate top. This blend of materials enhances the overall depth of sound when typing.
Ultimately, the distinctive combination of housing materials in the HMX Gravel and PH Studio Jacaranda provides users with a unique sonic experience. By using polycarbonate for the top housing, both switches emphasize clarity and resonance in sound. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing contributes warmth and fullness, resulting in a well-rounded auditory profile. While the switches are constructed from different materials for their top and bottom housings, the combination allows for an overall coherent sound experience, balancing sharpness with depth. Thus, users can find satisfaction in both models, experiencing similar results in terms of sound quality and performance, defined by the properties of these two complementary materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, both exhibit light force characteristics, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. The Gravel boasts an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Jacaranda is even lighter, with an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Jacaranda not only requires less force to actuate but also bottoms out at a lighter level compared to the Gravel. Consequently, for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, the Jacaranda may be the optimal choice. However, for those who appreciate a slightly more substantial feel while typing, the Gravel's heavier actuation and bottom out forces could provide a more satisfying experience. In summary, while both switches offer relatively light tactile responses, the Jacaranda is the lighter option, making it potentially more suitable for prolonged use.
Travel distance
The HMX Gravel linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.5 mm, indicating that they provide an identical experience when it comes to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and actuation characteristics from both switches, making them equally responsive under similar conditions. With both switches having the same travel distance, there are no distinctions in this aspect, allowing for interchangeability in scenarios where travel distance is a key consideration.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 Gravel switch does not have an explicit description provided, making it difficult to compare directly with the PH Studio Jacaranda switch, which is known for its distinct clacky nature. The Jacaranda's sound profile can be characterized as crisp, bright, and percussive, producing a sharp and high-pitched sound with each keystroke. This auditory feedback is described as resonant, contributing to an engaging auditory experience that many users find appealing. If the Gravel switch has a similar sound profile, one can expect an enjoyable typing experience, but without specific details on its sound characteristics, it remains uncertain.
In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel switch is recognized for its exceptional smoothness and refined typing experience, although specific descriptors are lacking. In contrast, the Jacaranda switch is celebrated for its silky feel, which amplifies the overall smoothness during typing and reduces resistance when pressing the keys. The Jacaranda's notable ease of use, as highlighted by its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g and extended 22mm spring, further enhances the feeling of effortless typing, making it easy on the fingers and reducing fatigue. While the Gravel excels in providing a smooth experience, without further information, we cannot directly quantify how their feels compare, aside from noting that both aim to create an enjoyable and comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, both switches cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The HMX Gravel offers a high level of smoothness and a lighter actuation force, ideal for those seeking a responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch excels with its clacky, high-pitched sound and uniquely bouncy feel, ensuring a delightful auditory and tactile experience. While sound characteristics of the Gravel remain unknown, if it mirrors the Jacaranda's strengths, enthusiasts may find value in either option, depending on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound, and overall experience. If you prioritize a smooth and refined typing feel along with a lighter actuation force, the Gravel is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation force of 50 grams provides an effortless typing experience while ensuring a satisfying smoothness that many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts cherish. The Gravel's sound profile is subtle, making it suitable for quieter environments or if you prefer a less pronounced auditory feedback.
On the other hand, if you value a bouncier feel and enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience, the Jacaranda may be the better fit for you. With a gentle bottom-out force of 45 grams and an extended spring length, the Jacaranda offers a uniquely bouncy sensation with each keystroke, ensuring fatigue-free typing during long sessions. Its clacky sound profile provides crisp and sharp feedback, making it ideal for those who appreciate an engaging sound with their typing. Ultimately, your decision will hinge on whether you seek a silky smoothness with softer auditory feedback or a bouncy typing experience complemented by a clacky sound signature. Choose based on what will make your typing experience more enjoyable and suited to your needs.
Mentioned in this article
