Gateron Ink Red vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red and the PH Studio Jacaranda mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ink Red boasts a lower actuation force, making it ideal for individuals with a lighter typing style. Known for its smooth feel and crispy, clacky sound profile, typing on the Ink Reds is effortless and satisfying. On the other hand, the Jacaranda by KTT stands out with its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, ensuring a fatigue-free typing experience. The extended 22mm spring in the Jacaranda provides a bouncy sensation with every keystroke, elevating the typing experience to new heights. While the Ink Red is categorized as 'Neutral,' 'Silky,' 'Chirpy,' 'Mild,' and 'Polished,' the Jacaranda is labeled as 'Clacky,' 'High-pitched,' 'Silky,' and 'Resonant.' Each switch offers its own advantages and qualities that may appeal to different users. 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
60g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and PH Studio Jacaranda, one can see the stark differences in sound profiles. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a clacky and higher-pitched sound, while the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and more resonant sound. This contrast in sound can greatly impact the typing experience, with the Ink Red offering a more satisfying clickiness compared to the Jacaranda's crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate material in the Jacaranda allows for RGB lighting effects, adding a visual dimension to the typing experience not present in the Ink Red.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the differences between the two switches become more apparent. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend bottom housing maintains its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, while the Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings can create a more muted and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Red. This difference in sound can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with the choice of bottom housing material playing a significant role in the tactile feedback and sound profile of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Gateron Ink Red and PH Studio Jacaranda can greatly impact the typing experience. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the INK blend material in the Ink Red provides a more clacky and high-pitched sound compared to the sharper and clearer sound produced by the polycarbonate material in the Jacaranda. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda offers a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the thin and higher-pitched sound of the INK blend bottom housing in the Ink Red. Each material brings its own qualities to the switch, ultimately shaping the overall typing experience for the user.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is clear that there are differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The Gateron Ink Red has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Jacaranda's 39 grams, making the Jacaranda the lighter of the two. The bottom out force of the Ink Red is also higher at 60 grams, while the Jacaranda bottoms out at 45 grams, showing that the Ink Red is the heavier switch. The higher actuation and bottom out forces of the Ink Red provide a more substantial typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Jacaranda make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Jacaranda has a shorter travel distance compared to the Ink Red. The shorter travel distance of the Jacaranda may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Ink Red offers a bit more depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on keys. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, but ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Red linear switch is known for its crisp and clacky sound profile, described as chirpy and neutral, making it suitable for various typing needs. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch stands out with its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience with a resonant quality. Depending on personal preference and the keyboard setup, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Gateron Ink Red and the PH Studio Jacaranda are described as providing a silky typing experience, ensuring smooth key presses and minimizing resistance. Additionally, the Gateron Ink Red switch is noted for its mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience in the middle-ground zone. Similarly, the extended 22mm spring in the Jacaranda switch contributes to a bouncy sensation, enhancing the overall typing feel to new heights.
Taking all available information into consideration, both the Gateron Ink Red and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches offer unique qualities that appeal to different preferences. While the Gateron switch provides a neutral and satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a chirpy sound profile, the Jacaranda switch offers a distinct clacky sound and bouncy sensation, making each keystroke more engaging. Whether you prefer a lighter actuation force with a crispy sound or a gentle bottom-out feel with a unique bouncy sensation, both switches are designed to elevate your typing experience and cater to individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a crispy sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy typing experience, the PH Studio Jacaranda would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for actuation force and typing feel. Whether you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with the Ink Red or a fatigue-free and bouncy sensation with the Jacaranda, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles. In the end, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a customized typing experience with either the Gateron Ink Red or the PH Studio Jacaranda.
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