PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Jerrzi Orange
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jerrzi Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jerrzi Orange both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda, a linear switch manufactured by KTT, is lauded for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, making it a comfortable option for fatigue-free typing. It produces a clacky sound signature and features an extended 22mm spring that adds a bouncy sensation to each keystroke, enhancing the typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switches are also linear but are known for their lightweight feel and crisp feedback, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a responsive and lively typing experience. While both switches fall under the 'clacky' category, the Jacaranda leans towards a high-pitched and silky feel, while the Orange offers a feathery and easy-to-press experience. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jerrzi Orange have similar properties when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches use polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is translucent, making it ideal for switches if RGB lighting is a consideration. This similarity in material means that both switches will likely deliver comparable sound profiles and aesthetics when it comes to their top housing.
However, where these switches differ is in their nylon bottom housing. The Jacaranda and the Orange both use nylon for the bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing will have a different feel and sound compared to switches with other materials. This distinction in bottom housing material highlights how the tactile experience of pressing down on the switches can vary between the Jacaranda and the Orange.
Overall, the use of different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches allows for a unique blend of qualities in the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jerrzi Orange. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. This division of housing materials in the switches results in a well-rounded typing experience, with a combination of sharpness and clarity from the polycarbonate top housing and depth and fullness from the nylon bottom housing. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Jerrzi Orange linear switch with 37 grams, making the Orange the lighter option. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Jacaranda requires 45 grams while the Orange force is unknown. Both switches are light in terms of actuation force, which is beneficial for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. The Jacaranda provides a slightly heavier bottom out force, offering a more substantial feel when pressing all the way down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a lighter actuation force or a heavier bottom out force is preferred by the user.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Orange's 3.7 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, the slight difference in millimeters may be noticeable to some users. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the Jacaranda due to its shorter travel distance, providing a more rapid keystroke experience. On the other hand, individuals who appreciate a bit more depth and feedback when typing may lean towards the Orange switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of typing feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched feedback, creating a sharp and percussive sound with each press. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch offers a more subdued sound profile, producing a dampened and subtle sound compared to most switches. Both switches provide a lively and vibrant typing experience, with the Jacaranda leaning towards a crisper sound while the Orange offers a more muted auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Orange switch is characterized by a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring little exertion from the fingers and reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Jacaranda focusing on smoothness and the Orange emphasizing light actuation force for effortless typing.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a bouncy and clacky typing experience with a silky smooth feel, the Orange stands out for its lightweight and feathery touch, combined with a subdued sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, enthusiasts can choose between these two switches to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup. Whether opting for the sharper feedback of the Jacaranda or the light actuation force of the Orange, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Jerrzi Orange linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force and enjoy a bouncy typing sensation with a crisp and clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the perfect choice for you. Its silky feel and unique 22mm spring provide a comfortable and fatigue-free typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a weightless bottom-out force and a lively, clacky sound, the Orange switch might be more suitable for you. The feathery feel of the Orange switch offers minimal resistance, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you aim to achieve.