PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, one can discover two distinct options that cater to different preferences—the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Magnetic Jade. The Jacaranda, a linear switch manufactured by KTT, is celebrated for its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, which provides a forgiving typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. With a clacky sound signature and a unique 22mm extended spring, it delivers a bouncy feel that enhances the overall experience for users who enjoy tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch, is designed for those who demand a bright and crisp acoustic profile, making it an excellent choice for avid gamers and typists looking for superior sound dynamics. While the Jacaranda leans towards providing a silky and resonant typing experience, the Magnetic Jade focuses on delivering sharp auditory feedback perfect for a high-performance setup. 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
30g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Magnetic Jade showcase similar characteristics when it comes to their top housings, which are both made from polycarbonate. This choice of material results in a sound profile that is sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper, attributed to polycarbonate's rigidity. As both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, users can expect consistency in the auditory experience, making them particularly appealing for setups that include RGB lighting. The translucent nature of polycarbonate enhances the visual aspect of the switches, offering an aesthetically pleasing glow, ensuring that both switches will deliver comparable results regarding sound clarity and illumination.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the two switches diverge, as they both employ nylon, but their distinct acoustic properties create different sound experiences. The nylon bottom housing in the Jacaranda contributes a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer composition, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than its polycarbonate counterpart. Similarly, the Magnetic Jade's nylon bottom housing exhibits these traits, promoting a rounder and more subdued auditory experience. Because both switches share nylon for their bottom components, users can anticipate a consistent depth in sound, however, their top housings will lead to varying degrees of resonance, depending on the force applied during typing.
In summary, while the top housings of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Magnetic Jade are identical in their use of polycarbonate, offering sharp sound and compatibility with RGB lighting, the nylon bottom housings are the linchpin for the differing auditory sensations. The combination of a clear, resonant top from polycarbonate and a softer, fuller bottom from nylon will result in an engaging typing experience. Although both switches may share the same bottom material, their unique sound profiles, stemming from the interaction between the stiffer polycarbonate top and the softer nylon bottom, allows for an engaging contrast in performance and feedback during use.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch to the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom-out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Jacaranda has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom-out force of 45 grams, making it a great option for extended typing sessions or gaming as it minimizes the effort required to type. In contrast, the Magnetic Jade features a slightly lighter actuation force of 30 grams, but its bottom-out force is heavier at 55 grams. This means that while the initial key press is easier with the Magnetic Jade, the overall feel can be more substantial when fully bottoming out. Thus, the Jacaranda is the lighter switch overall, providing a gentler typing experience, while the Magnetic Jade, with its heavier bottom-out force, offers a more pronounced tactile feedback for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Therefore, those seeking a lighter switch might gravitate towards the Jacaranda, while those desiring a heavier, more substantial experience could consider the Magnetic Jade.
Travel distance
Both the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch feature the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when pressed, both switches will provide a similar tactile experience as they travel down the same distance from the top to the bottom. Since they have identical travel distances, users can expect comparable performance in terms of key press depth and feel, making either switch an equally viable option for those seeking a linear switch 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 Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 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 and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches deliver a clacky auditory profile that can enhance your typing experience. The Jacaranda produces a distinctively bright and crisp sound with each keystroke, described as high-pitched and resonant, providing a sharp and snappy feedback that's notably immersive and pleasant. This clacky characteristic resonates well within the environment, making it an engaging choice for many typists. While the specific sound profile of the Magnetic Jade is not detailed, it is also regarded as offering bright and clacky acoustics, which suggests that users can expect a similarly exciting auditory experience from these switches. Factors such as the keyboard’s construction and the type of keycaps used will further influence the overall sound, but both switches lean toward a lively and pronounced audio output.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda is characterized by its silky smoothness, allowing for an exceptionally fluid typing experience. This switch minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, contributing to a comfortable and fatigue-free typing session, especially with the gentle 43.5g bottom-out force. The unique 22mm spring not only enhances the bouncy sensation but also adds to the overall enjoyment of typing. Unfortunately, the specific feel attributes of the Gateron Magnetic Jade are not provided, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons. However, users often seek out the Magnetic Jade for its superior typing experience, which may imply a high level of smoothness and responsiveness that could rival the Jacaranda in certain respects.
In summary, both the PH Studio Jacaranda and Gateron Magnetic Jade switches provide an engaging typing experience marked by clackiness, though the Jacaranda excels with its silky smooth feel and distinct auditory feedback. While the Magnetic Jade's precise tactile qualities remain unknown, its reputation suggests it possesses attributes appealing to enthusiasts seeking an elevated typing sensation. Overall, both switches cater to users looking for an enjoyable and dynamic experience, and personal preference regarding sound and feel will ultimately guide the decision between the two.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, your choice will depend largely on your typing preferences and the experience you seek. If you favor a lighter touch and a more playful, bouncy feel while typing, the Jacaranda is an excellent option. With its lower bottom-out force of 45 grams, it allows for prolonged typing sessions with reduced finger fatigue, perfect for those who type extensively or just enjoy a light touch. The clacky, high-pitched sound signature adds an engaging auditory element, making it an ideal fit for those who appreciate prominent feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you’re after a balance between a slightly firmer resistance and superior acoustics, the Gateron Magnetic Jade should be your go-to. With its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, it offers a bit more resistance, which can be helpful for those who prefer a more deliberate keystroke. Moreover, its bright and clacky sound complements the gameplay or heavy typing scenarios, particularly in settings where auditory feedback enhances the experience. Ultimately, selecting these switches boils down to whether you prioritize a plush, effortless feel or a bit more resistance paired with enhanced sound quality.
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