PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Keygeek Keylin
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Keygeek Keylin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often boils down to personal preference and typing style. The PH Studio Jacaranda switch, manufactured by KTT, offers a delightful typing experience characterized by its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, making it exceptionally easy on the fingers. Its clacky, high-pitched sound profile adds an auditory layer of feedback that many typists find satisfying. Moreover, the extended 22mm spring introduces a unique bounciness to each keystroke, providing an elevated tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Keygeek Keylin switch is crafted using new molds that prioritize smoothness and rich acoustics, aiming to deliver an exceptionally premium typing experience without the specific sound signature associated with the Jacaranda. While the Jacaranda leans towards a more expressive auditory feedback and bouncy feel, the Keylin switch focuses on a subtly refined smoothness, catering to those who prefer a quieter, seamless experience. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Keygeek Keylin, it is evident that both switches adopt distinct approaches through their respective top housings. The Jacaranda utilizes a polycarbonate material for its top housing, which imparts a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its rigid structure. Polycarbonate's translucency further enhances its compatibility with RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination effects. In contrast, the Keylin opts for a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and more rounded sound profile. The nylon's softer nature absorbs sound more effectively than polycarbonate, thus altering the auditory experience when typing. This fundamental difference in top housing materials leads to contrasting sound profiles and overall user experiences when engaged with each switch.
However, it is noteworthy that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, establishing a common ground in their design. The nylon bottom housing in both the Jacaranda and Keylin contributes to a fuller sound profile, creating a uniformity in bottom-out sound and feel. As the softer plastic is more efficient in sound absorption, it provides a deeper sound signature that can enhance typing experiences for users. Since both models rely on nylon for the bottom housing, this similarity ensures that the tactile feedback and bottom-out sounds are comparable, fostering a consistent auditory experience that could satisfy users who prefer a fuller sound.
In summary, while the top housings of the PH Studio Jacaranda and Keygeek Keylin differ significantly—resulting in diverse sound profiles—the commonality found in the nylon bottom housing serves to balance the overall acoustic experience. Users can expect that even though the Jacaranda's polycarbonate upper provides a brighter tone, both switches will deliver a deep, consistent sound attributed to the nylon construction at the bottom. Ultimately, individuals seeking distinct auditory nuances will appreciate the polycarbonate's crispness with the Jacaranda, while still enjoying the warm, rounded characteristics that both switches provide due to their nylon lower halves.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, we find that both switches offer a light typing experience, but with slight variations. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams, while the Keylin is slightly lighter at 38 grams. However, the bottom out forces differ, with the Jacaranda reaching 45 grams compared to the Keylin's heavier 48 grams. This means that while both switches provide a relatively light actuation, the Jacaranda allows for a softer bottom out experience. For users who prioritize a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Jacaranda might be more suitable, whereas those who prefer a bit more resistance during the bottom out phase may lean towards the Keylin.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the PH Studio Jacaranda and Keygeek Keylin linear switches differ slightly, with the Jacaranda measuring 3.5 mm while the Keylin extends to 3.6 mm. This makes the Jacaranda the shorter option, appealing to gamers or users who favor quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. In contrast, the Keylin, with its longer travel distance, may be better suited for those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing, as it provides slightly more depth with each keystroke. Ultimately, if both switches had the same travel distance, users would experience similar responses upon pressing the keys; however, in this case, the Keylin's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a marginally deeper experience compared to the Jacaranda's 3.5 mm.
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 Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin 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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch stands out with a distinctive clacky profile that produces a sharp, high-pitched sound upon each keystroke. This characteristic offers a crisp, bright auditory feedback that is pleasing to the ear, making each press feel more engaging. The combination of its resonant nature and high-pitched qualities enhances the overall typing experience, providing a snappy sound that is both immersive and sharp. Conversely, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch, while embodying a premium typing experience, does not come with specific sound descriptors. Therefore, while the Jacaranda offers a well-defined acoustic profile, the Keylin’s sound attributes remain unknown.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda excels with its notably silky texture, allowing for an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This unencumbered action minimizes resistance during both key presses and releases, which can significantly improve typing speed and comfort. Additionally, the gentle bottom-out force of 43.5 grams combined with the bounciness provided by the 22mm spring makes for a responsive tactile experience. On the other hand, the Keylin's feel remains unspecified, leaving those interested in this switch without detailed information on its tactile characteristics and smoothness.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch presents itself as a dynamic choice for those valuing both sound and feel, boasting a crisp, clacky audio profile and a silky smooth tactile sensation. In comparison, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch may offer a premium experience, but its specific sound and feel qualities are not detailed, making it a less predictable option for newcomers. Ultimately, if an individual is drawn to the distinctive characteristics of the Jacaranda, they can expect a fulfilling typing experience, while the Keylin may require further exploration to uncover its true merits.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Keygeek Keylin linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences for both sound and feel while typing. If you favor a lighter press and enjoy a more engaging auditory experience, the Jacaranda, with its 45-gram bottom-out force and clacky sound signature, is your best option. It excels in providing a bouncy and enjoyable typing sensation thanks to its extended spring, which makes it ideal for those who type for long periods and want to prevent finger fatigue. However, if you prioritize a smoother and more premium typing experience without pronounced auditory feedback, the Keylin, with a slightly firmer 48-gram bottom-out force, may serve you better. While the Keylin lacks specific descriptors regarding sound, it is recognized for its exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, making it perfect for users who prefer a quieter environment and a more refined feel under their fingertips. Ultimately, your ideal switch will hinge on what you value more: a lively auditory experience and light touch, or a smooth, understated typing feel.
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