PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch both offer unique features that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, providing a fatigue-free typing experience, coupled with a clacky sound signature that offers crisp feedback. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switch boasts a deep, resonant thockiness with a seamless glide, making each keystroke a satisfying auditory experience. While the Jacaranda offers a bouncy sensation with its extended 22mm spring, the LT switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. When choosing between the two, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gazzew LT, it is clear that both switches utilize unique materials to enhance their sound profiles. The Jacaranda features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the LT uses a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the Jacaranda's top housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, the LT's top housing focuses on producing a deeper and fuller sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Jacaranda incorporates a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Gazzew LT also utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend for the bottom housing, emphasizing a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Both switches benefit from the unique qualities of their bottom housing materials, enhancing the overall typing experience.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom housings of a switch. When pressing down on either the Jacaranda or the LT, you will feel the effects of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material will have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences in housing materials, both switches ultimately aim to provide an optimal typing experience through the careful selection of materials for their top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch to the Gazzew LT linear switch, it is clear that the Jacaranda is the lighter option. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating a light and easy typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew LT has a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing feel. While the actuation force of the LT is not specified, it can be assumed to be higher than that of the Jacaranda. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time may lean towards the Jacaranda, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the heavier Gazzew LT switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their quick response times. However, the Jacaranda has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the LT. For those who enjoy a bit more depth and feedback when typing or gaming, the Jacaranda may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more immediate and responsive feel, the Gazzew LT with its slightly shorter travel distance could be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel each individual user is looking for in a keyboard.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, with a crisp and audible feedback that adds a satisfying element to typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT linear switch provides a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound that delivers a deep and resonant auditory experience with each press. Depending on personal preference and setup, users can enjoy the sharp and snappy sound of the Jacaranda or the deep, rich thockiness of the LT.
When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience, ensuring that each keystroke is gentle on the fingers and effortless to execute. While information on the specific feel of the Gazzew LT linear switch is unavailable, users can generally expect a seamless glide with each key press, leading to a satisfying and comfortable typing experience overall.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch offer unique sound and potentially feel experiences for users to consider. Whether you prefer the clacky and bouncy sensation of the Jacaranda or the deep, resonant thockiness of the LT, both switches provide distinct characteristics that can enhance your typing experience. With the right setup and keycaps, users can expect to get similar high-quality results in terms of sound and potentially feel from either switch, ultimately making the choice between the two a matter of personal preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch or the Gazzew LT linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light bottom-out force, a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force, a smooth typing experience with a bassy and thocky sound profile, the LT switch could be more suitable for your needs. Consider the key characteristics of each switch, such as bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel, to determine which one aligns best with your preferences and typing habits. Ultimately, the decision between the Jacaranda and LT switches will depend on what type of typing experience you value the most.
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