PH Studio Jacaranda vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Jacaranda, with its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force and extended 22mm spring, provides a comfortable and bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Laurel features a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design for a responsive yet comfortable typing feel with a subtly low-pitched sound profile. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a fatigue-free typing experience with its unique bouncy sensation, the Laurel strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches with RGB lighting as it is translucent and allows light to pass through easily. In contrast, the KTT Laurel features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite their differences, both materials offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
On the other hand, the Jacaranda incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Laurel also uses a POM bottom housing, emphasizing the creation of the same deeper and more muted sound profile. Despite the different materials used, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound characteristics.
Overall, the choice between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Laurel will ultimately come down to personal preference regarding sound profile and typing experience. While the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, the Laurel's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon and POM bottom housings of the Jacaranda and Laurel respectively offer a fuller sound output. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a deeper one, both switches provide a unique typing experience that caters to varying preferences.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch both fall under the lighter weight category when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Jacaranda has a slightly lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Laurel's 43 grams, but both have relatively low bottom out forces of 45 grams and 50 grams respectively. This means that both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Users who prefer a more substantial typing feel may find the Jacaranda to be slightly lighter than the Laurel, but overall, both switches offer a similar level of actuation and bottom out forces for a comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Having the same travel distance can result in a similar typing experience and overall feel when using either switch. This can be beneficial for users who prefer consistency and familiarity in their typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a medium travel distance that falls between shorter and longer options available in the market.
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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched experience, providing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each press. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch is noted for its low-pitched sound profile, delivering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Jacaranda leaning towards a sharper sound and the Laurel offering a mellower tone.
In terms of feel, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing an exceptional level of smoothness. Conversely, the KTT Laurel linear switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing feel that can make the typing experience feel more alive. Both switches provide unique tactile feedback that can cater to different preferences, with the Jacaranda focusing on smoothness and the Laurel emphasizing responsiveness.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jacaranda provides a clacky and high-pitched sound along with a silky smooth typing experience, the Laurel offers a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches can offer an enjoyable typing experience. It's important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between the two switches to ensure optimal satisfaction with the chosen mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you are looking for a switch with a lighter bottom-out force, a bouncy sensation, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom-out force, a low-pitched sound profile, and a snappy feel, the Laurel could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so consider what aspects are important to you when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
