PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Lunar Probe both stand out as linear options, each offering unique advantages. The Jacaranda, known for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force and clacky sound signature, provides a fatigue-free typing experience with a bouncy sensation thanks to its extended 22mm spring. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe by Gateron boasts a dual rail mechanism for stable keypresses, pre-lubed smooth linear sensation, and a subtle sound profile. While the Jacaranda is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched feedback, the Lunar Probe remains unclassified in terms of sound characteristics. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct advantages for different preferences, but diving deeper into their individual features will help you make the best choice for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Lunar Probe feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to polycarbonate's stiffness, it leads to a clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. While both switches have similar top housings, the differences lie in their bottom housings.
The Jacaranda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Lunar Probe also features a nylon bottom housing, showcasing the classic switch housing material's characteristics. Despite having different top housings, both switches share the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches can greatly affect the sound and feel of typing. While both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Lunar Probe have polycarbonate top housings that result in a sharp and crisp sound profile, their nylon bottom housings provide a different tactile experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials showcases how each component contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch, emphasizing the importance of a well-balanced combination for an optimal typing experience.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch both offer relatively light actuation and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Jacaranda has a slightly lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Lunar Probe's 45 grams, providing a softer touch for typing. In terms of bottom out force, the Jacaranda requires 45 grams while the Lunar Probe needs 50 grams, making the Jacaranda slightly lighter overall. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience with a similar actuation and bottom out force ratio, ensuring consistent performance whether typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding the desired level of force and feel while typing.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Lunar Probe has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jacaranda. In terms of responsiveness, the Jacaranda with its shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more traditional depth and feel when typing may opt for the Lunar Probe with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 unique experience with its clacky sound profile, providing a crisp and bright feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is known for its subtle sound signature, allowing for a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences - whether you prefer a sharp and percussive sound or a smoother, quieter typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance and enhancing the overall smoothness of each keystroke. On the contrary, the feel of the Lunar Probe switch is not specified in the information provided. It is important to note that the feel of a switch is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel. Depending on your preference for a clacky sound with a bouncy sensation like the Jacaranda, or a smoother, quieter typing experience like the Lunar Probe, you can achieve different typing experiences by choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer their own set of characteristics, providing options for a personalized typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prioritize a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy sensation with a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and value stable and consistent keypresses with a smooth linear sensation, the Lunar Probe could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what qualities matter most to you.
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