PH Studio Jacaranda vs. HMX Lucky

Overview

When it comes to finding the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two noteworthy options to consider are the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Lucky, both of which fall under the category of linear switches. The Jacaranda, made by KTT, is celebrated for its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, making it an excellent choice for those who want a comfortable, fatigue-free typing experience. Its sound profile is distinctly clacky, with a crisp, audible feedback that adds an extra layer of engagement with each keystroke. The extended 22mm spring in the Jacaranda delivers a bouncy sensation that truly enhances the tactile pleasure of typing. On the other hand, the HMX Lucky switches stand out with their softer and glittery nylon housing, offering a more neutral and soothing typing experience that many users find deeply satisfying. While the Jacaranda might appeal to those who appreciate a bit more auditory feedback and bounce, the Lucky is ideal for typists seeking a smooth and understated feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

PH Studio Jacaranda Linear

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.90

$3.30 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Lucky differ significantly in their choice of housing materials for the top, although both switches share nylon as the material for their bottom housings. The Jacaranda utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, allowing for enhanced resonance and clarity, particularly when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the HMX Lucky employs nylon for its top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound. This results in a deeper and fuller acoustic experience, leading to softer and rounder sound qualities during use. Thus, while the Jacaranda’s polycarbonate top emphasizes brightness and clarity, the Lucky’s nylon top fosters a more subdued and rich sound.

Despite the varying materials in their top housings, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which creates common ground between the two. The nylon bottom housing in both the Jacaranda and the Lucky contributes significantly to how the switches feel during typing: by absorbing sound, it delivers a more muted acoustic feedback, giving users a consistent experience across both switches. This similarity in bottom housing implies that, regardless of their different top housings, both switches will produce a duller and rounder sound profile when bottomed out. Therefore, while the top housing may lead to distinct auditory experiences, the nylon bottoms will ensure that a softer sound character is present during the act of bottoming out.

In summary, while the PH Studio Jacaranda and HMX Lucky switches diverge in their top housing materials—polycarbonate for the former and nylon for the latter—they converge in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, leading to a common sound absorption quality that moderates the overall acoustic profile. Each design choice influences the sound experience differently; the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top enhances brightness and clarity, while the Lucky's nylon top emphasizes warmth and fullness. However, the similar nylon bottoms ensure that both switches deliver a consistent and satisfying typing experience, making them viable options depending on user preference for either sharpness or depth in sound.

Weight

When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces reveal interesting insights into their respective feels during use. The Jacaranda has a slightly higher actuation force at 39 grams compared to the Lucky's 37 grams, making the Lucky the lighter option when it comes to initiating keystrokes. Similarly, the bottom out force for the Jacaranda is 45 grams, while the Lucky has a bottom out force of 43 grams, again indicating that the Lucky is the lighter switch overall. Both switches are categorized as light in terms of force, making them suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming. However, the Jacaranda provides a marginally heavier feel in both actuation and bottom out forces, catering to those who might prefer a more substantial push sensation during typing. Ultimately, while both switches are light, the HMX Lucky stands out as the lighter of the two.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch, there is a notable difference in their specifications. The Jacaranda features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Lucky has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that if you prefer quicker actuation and a more responsive feel when typing or gaming, the Jacaranda might be the more suitable option due to its shorter travel distance. In contrast, the Lucky, with its greater travel distance, may provide a more substantial keystroke experience, which some users find preferable for a heartier typing depth. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize speed or a more gradual key press sensation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is characterized by its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant qualities. With a crisp and bright auditory feedback, each keystroke produces a sharp sound that is both percussive and immersive, appealing to those who enjoy an audible response when typing. This high-pitched sound can enhance the typing experience for users who prefer a more pronounced acoustic profile. In contrast, the HMX Lucky linear switch does not have a specified sound profile provided, leaving its acoustic qualities undefined. Thus, while the Jacaranda offers a distinctive and engaging sound, the auditory experience of the Lucky remains unclear.

When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda excels with its silky typing experience, providing an exceptionally smooth process that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This fluidity contributes to a typing sensation that is both enjoyable and fatigue-free, especially given its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g. On the other hand, the feel of the HMX Lucky linear switch is not explicitly detailed, which means its tactile feedback and overall typing sensation are unknown. Therefore, while the Jacaranda promises a refined and pleasant feel, the tactile experience of the Lucky switch remains a mystery.

In summary, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is a well-defined option, particularly noted for its clacky acoustic profile and silky, smooth feel that ensures a satisfying typing experience with minimal fatigue. Conversely, the HMX Lucky linear switch lacks specific sound and feel qualities, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. For those who prioritize a defined auditory and tactile experience, the Jacaranda stands out, while the Lucky may appeal to users seeking a different, yet undocumented experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Lucky linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback. If you prioritize a light, bouncy feel and enjoy an engaging auditory experience, the Jacaranda switch stands out with its 45g bottom-out force and crisp, clacky sound. This switch is ideal for typists who want a lively typing experience that keeps your fingers comfortable during long sessions, thanks to its unique 22mm spring design. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral, smooth, and subtly satisfying typing experience, the Lucky switch might be the better option for you. Weighing in with a slightly lighter 43g bottom-out force, the Lucky offers a softer sensation that might better suit users who want a quieter, more understated key press without sacrificing comfort. Ultimately, your choice should align with whether you seek the vibrant auditory feedback and bouncy feel of the Jacaranda or the silky smoothness and neutrality of the Lucky, as both switches cater to different typing styles and preferences.

Mentioned in this article

PH Studio Jacaranda Linear

$3.90

$3.30 per 10

Learn more

HMX Lucky Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more