PH Studio Jacaranda vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Lightning are both linear switches that offer unique characteristics for different preferences. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, making it easy on the fingers and perfect for fatigue-free typing. Its extended 22mm spring provides a bouncy sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning is designed for speed, catering to those moments where milliseconds can make a difference in performance. It offers a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile. While both switches fall under the 'Clacky' and 'High-pitched' categories, they differ in their additional sound characteristics. The Jacaranda is described as 'Silky' and 'Resonant', while the Lightning is labeled as 'Chirpy', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your specific typing preferences and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. 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
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Lightning are quite similar in terms of their top housing, both utilizing polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound profile, users can expect a similar experience with the top housing of both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Jacaranda features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Lightning also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. Both switches showcase the classic characteristics of nylon in their bottom housing, adding a unique sound signature to their typing experience.
Overall, the differences in the bottom housing materials between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Lightning showcase how the qualities of each housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. While the top housing of both switches remains consistent with polycarbonate, the contrasting nylon bottom housing materials offer users a varying typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing's impact is more noticeable when releasing a key. These differences highlight the importance of housing materials in creating a unique typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
Comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The Jacaranda has a slightly lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Lightning's 43 grams, while the Jacaranda's bottom out force of 45 grams is also lighter than the Lightning's 50 grams. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience for extended periods, making them suitable for work or gaming. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Jacaranda, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might opt for the Lightning. Overall, both switches provide a smooth typing experience with minimal effort required to actuate keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the KTT Lightning linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, those who prefer a more traditional and deeper key press may find the Jacaranda switch more suitable, while those looking for a slightly quicker key press may prefer the Lightning switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of key press experience.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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, both the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. While the Jacaranda has a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, the Lightning switch adds a unique chirpy element to its sound. Depending on personal preference and the keyboard setup, users will experience a different auditory experience with each switch. In terms of feel, the Jacaranda is noted for its silky smooth typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance. On the other hand, the Lightning switch offers a subtle resistance for a light typing feel and a polished finish for smooth key travel. Despite their differences in sound and feel, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results with either switch in terms of comfort and performance. Ultimately, choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Lightning will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, consider your typing preferences and requirements. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force for a fatigue-free typing experience, along with a bouncy sensation and clacky sound feedback, the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision, especially in competitive gaming scenarios where milliseconds matter, the Lightning switch with its slick feel and clacky sound profile may better suit your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal typing style and preferences, so consider these factors carefully before making your selection.
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