PH Studio Jacaranda vs. HMX KD200
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX KD200 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX KD200 are both noteworthy options in the realm of linear switches, each offering a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. The Jacaranda, manufactured by KTT, is recognized for its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, allowing for comfortable and fatigue-free typing sessions. Its clacky sound profile delivers a crisp auditory feedback, and the distinctive 22mm spring adds an exhilarating bounce to each keystroke, creating a harmonious blend of responsiveness and enjoyment. In contrast, the HMX KD200, touted as the clackiest switch in the HMX Film family, offers its own enticing acoustic signature, appealing to those who favor an emphatically audible typing experience. While both switches boast linear characteristics, they present contrasting auditory sensations and tactile experiences that could influence your decision based on your personal preferences. 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
39g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX KD200 present contrasting approaches to housing materials, particularly in their choice for the top housing. The Jacaranda employs polycarbonate, a material known for its stiffness and translucency. This choice results in a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for players who appreciate a detailed auditory feedback during typing. Additionally, the clear nature of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal when RGB lighting is involved, revealing vibrant colors through the switch housing. On the other hand, the KD200 uses nylon for its top housing, delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Unlike the rigid polycarbonate, nylon is softer and more sound-absorbing, resulting in a rounder auditory experience. As a result, while both switches are engineered for optimal performance, they cater to different preferences in sound texture; the Jacaranda is sharper, while the KD200 offers a more muted, enveloping tone.
When examining the bottom housing, both the Jacaranda and KD200 feature nylon, which is a common choice in switch designs. This means that regardless of their top housing material differences, both models will present similar characteristics in terms of sound absorption and feel when the switch bottoms out. The use of nylon in the bottom housing sways the overall sound profile towards the deeper end, creating consistency in keypress experiences. In this aspect, both the Jacaranda and KD200 are aligned, offering a rich sound quality that improves typing dynamics, ensuring deeper auditory feedback regardless of the contrasting top materials.
In conclusion, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Jacaranda contrasts with the nylon-only combination used in the KD200. While their bottom housing materials are identical, it’s the differentiation in the top housing that ultimately sets them apart. Keyboard enthusiasts looking for a bright and sharp sound might gravitate towards the Jacaranda, thanks to its polycarbonate top, especially if they utilize RGB lighting. Conversely, those who prefer a warmer and rounder sound, amplified by the softer properties of nylon, might favor the KD200. Thus, the choice between these two switches boils down to a preference for sound clarity versus depth, illustrating how different materials can influence the overall typing experience.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch both offer a light typing experience, but they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Jacaranda features an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the lighter option overall. In contrast, the KD200 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. While both switches may feel comfortable for extended typing sessions and gaming, those who prefer a less forceful response would likely gravitate toward the Jacaranda, with its lower actuation force providing a gentler touch. In summary, if you're looking for a lighter switch, the Jacaranda will be your best bet, whereas the KD200 will offer a more substantial feel with a heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
Both the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, users will experience an identical distance traveled for both switches, resulting in similar tactile feedback and actuation feel. Since the travel distance is equal, users can expect similar performance and responsiveness when typing or gaming with either switch.
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 HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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
The sound profile of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is notably clacky, characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback that enhances the typing experience. With a high-pitched resonance, each keystroke produces a clean and sharp sound, making it a pleasure to type on for users who appreciate an articulate and lively sound signature. In contrast, there is a lack of specific sound descriptors provided for the HMX KD200 linear switch; however, it is referred to as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, suggesting that it also offers a notable auditory experience, albeit the exact characteristics remain unspecified.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the Jacaranda excels with its silky smoothness, making it exceptionally pleasant for prolonged typing sessions. The gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g and the distinct bounciness provided by the extended 22mm spring contribute to an experience that minimizes resistance and fatigue during use. On the other hand, no specific feel characteristics are mentioned for the KD200, leaving its tactile qualities unknown. This means that while the Jacaranda offers a definitive, smooth typing experience, the feel of the KD200 remains a mystery for potential users.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a clear advantage in both sound and feel, creating a dynamic and enjoyable typing experience with its crisp auditory feedback and silky smoothness. The KD200's clacky sound nature suggests it may provide a satisfying auditory experience, but its tactile feel remains undetermined. For enthusiasts looking to explore linear switches, the Jacaranda stands out as a well-defined option, while the KD200 invites curiosity for those interested in its clacky attributes, even if the tactile sensation remains unspecified.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the PH Studio Jacaranda switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch will depend largely on your specific preferences for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter touch with an effortlessly smooth feel and enjoy a crisp, high-pitched clacky sound, the Jacaranda is an excellent choice. Its gently bouncy keystrokes thanks to the extended 22mm spring provide a delightful and fatigue-free typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where comfort is paramount. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a switch with a more pronounced and distinct clacky sound—one that projects a lively auditory feedback while maintaining a slightly firmer bottom-out pressure—the KD200 might be more to your liking. This switch’s bold sound signature, being the noisiest in the HMX Film family, makes it appealing for those who enjoy an engaging acoustic environment and prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your decision will be guided by how you prioritize these characteristics, ensuring you select the switch that best enhances your overall typing or gaming experience.
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