Jerrzi Honey Bean vs. PH Studio Jacaranda

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing style, two standout options are the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the PH Studio Jacaranda, both of which belong to the linear switch category. The Honey Bean is renowned for its light and feathery feel, offering users a muted and discreet typing experience—ideal for office settings or shared environments where noise reduction is a priority. This switch promotes a smooth keystroke without any auditory distractions, making it a great choice for those who value peace and focus. On the other hand, the Jacaranda from PH Studio, manufactured by KTT, introduces a more dynamic typing experience with its gentle bottom-out force and distinct clacky sound signature. The extended 22mm spring of the Jacaranda contributes to a uniquely bouncy feel, adding an element of excitement while providing satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences—whether you’re after a silent and comfortable typing experience or a more engaging, resonant one. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Jerrzi Honey Bean Linear

PH Studio Jacaranda Linear

$4.00

$3.59 per 10

$3.90

$3.30 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the PH Studio Jacaranda, it becomes apparent that they are designed to produce distinctly different sound profiles. The Honey Bean features a POM (polyoxymethylene) top and bottom housing, which creates a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper and more muted end of the auditory spectrum. This choice of material results in a cohesive sound output that is characterized by its warmth and subtlety, making it an ideal option for users who prefer a less intrusive auditory experience while typing. The use of POM in both the top and bottom housings ensures that the muted sound is consistent throughout the keystroke, contributing to an overall harmonious typing experience.

In contrast, the PH Studio Jacaranda employs a polycarbonate top housing paired with a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate material is noted for its rigidity and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is both crisp and resonant. This makes the Jacaranda particularly suitable for users who appreciate feedback that is clear and defined. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing contributes a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer material properties, which absorbs more sound than the harder plastics. This dynamic combination allows for a unique interaction between the two materials, effectively blending the characteristics of both to create a more pronounced auditory experience compared to the muted tones of the Honey Bean.

Although the housing materials of the Honey Bean and the Jacaranda differ significantly, they ultimately serve to highlight the creative potential in switch design. Users can achieve specific sound profiles based on material choices; the POM in the Honey Bean yields a more subdued tone while the Jacaranda's polycarbonate and nylon pairing offers a broader contrast between clarity and depth. Thus, while the two switches aim to cater to different preferences, each one can successfully deliver an enjoyable typing experience by leveraging the unique properties of their respective materials.

Weight

When comparing the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch to the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces provide insight into their overall feel and performance. The Honey Bean features an actuation force of 42 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Jacaranda's actuation force of 39 grams. This makes the Jacaranda a lighter option, appealing to users who prefer less effort for each keystroke, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the Honey Bean lacks a specified bottom out force, leaving users in the dark about how it feels when a key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the Jacaranda has a bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating a more substantial push feel at the actuation point. Therefore, those who enjoy a heavier tactile experience may opt for the Jacaranda, while users seeking a lighter touch might lean toward the Honey Bean in the absence of its bottom out specification. Overall, the variance in these forces suggests that the Jacaranda will deliver a more defined tactile feedback experience, whereas the Honey Bean’s appeal may lie in its unspecified characteristics.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Jerrzi Honey Bean linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, the former has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the latter features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Honey Bean the longer option, providing a deeper keypress experience that some users may prefer for a more robust feel. In contrast, the Jacaranda, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to those seeking faster response times, which can be particularly advantageous for gamers who favor quicker actuation. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, individuals who prioritize a more pronounced keypress may gravitate towards the Jerrzi Honey Bean, whereas those who value speed and responsiveness may opt for the PH Studio Jacaranda.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Jerrzi Honey Bean switch is characterized by its muted operation, making it ideal for environments where noise reduction is a priority. It offers a softer and quieter typing experience, which is perfect for shared spaces or offices where distractions need to be minimized. In contrast, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch produces a distinctly clacky sound profile, described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Its higher-pitched and resonant nature creates a more immersive auditory experience, appealing to those who prefer audible feedback while typing. This variation in sound between the two switches deeply impacts the overall experience, as the Honey Bean promotes tranquility whereas the Jacaranda invites acoustic engagement.

On the feel front, the Honey Bean switch excels with its easy-to-press and feathery action, allowing for effortless key presses that minimize finger fatigue, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions. The light actuation force ensures a comfortable experience, reducing any strain during extended periods of use. In comparison, the Jacaranda switch offers a silky typing experience characterized by its smoothness and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. While both switches aim to provide a pleasant typing experience, the Honey Bean focuses on ease and comfort, while the Jacaranda enhances the seamlessness of the keystroke.

In summary, both the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches present distinct yet enjoyable typing experiences. The Honey Bean caters to users seeking a quiet and ergonomic option, making it well-suited for work and shared environments, whereas the Jacaranda appeals to those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback and a smooth keystroke. Choosing between them will ultimately come down to personal preference regarding sound preferences and the tactile sensations that enhance your typing or gaming experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Jerrzi Honey Bean and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you find yourself in a shared space or office where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum, the Honey Bean is an excellent choice. Its muted sound profile and feather-light actuation make it easy to press, providing a silent yet satisfying typing experience, which can help you maintain focus without disturbing those around you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile and audible feedback when typing, the Jacaranda would be the better option. With its crisp, resonant sound and a gentle bottom-out force of 45 grams, it offers a unique, bouncy sensation that can enhance both typing and gaming experiences. Additionally, its silky feel makes for smooth transitions between key presses, perfect for long sessions. Ultimately, assess your needs—whether you prioritize quietness and ease of use with the Honey Bean or prefer the engaging auditory and tactile feedback of the Jacaranda.

Mentioned in this article

Jerrzi Honey Bean Linear

$4.00

$3.59 per 10

Learn more

PH Studio Jacaranda Linear

$3.90

$3.30 per 10

Learn more