PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Dareu Mahjong mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer their own set of unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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 Mahjong switches stand out with their vibrant green and white color scheme, offering a lively and poppy sound signature for an effortless typing experience. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POK
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Dareu Mahjong both feature a top housing made of unique materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffness, while also allowing for RGB lighting to shine through. In contrast, the Mahjong's POK top housing offers a smooth and clacky sound profile, boasting exceptional durability and wear resistance. While both materials are designed to enhance sound quality, the Jacaranda's polycarbonate emphasizes clarity, while the Mahjong's POK material prioritizes smoothness and durability.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Jacaranda and the Mahjong utilize nylon for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder sound. Despite both switches using nylon for their bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials will still play a role in the overall typing experience. The combination of polycarbonate top housing in the Jacaranda and POK top housing in the Mahjong will impact the sound and feel of each keystroke in unique ways, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and the top housing affecting the release sound.
In conclusion, while the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Dareu Mahjong both incorporate nylon bottom housings for a deep and full sound profile, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing prioritizes clarity and resonance, ideal for those who prefer a sharper sound profile with the option for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Mahjong's POK top housing offers a smooth and clacky typing experience, emphasizing durability and wear resistance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong 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, making it a more gentle option for typing. On the other hand, the Mahjong has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier, although the bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force of the Mahjong is slightly higher than that of the Jacaranda, providing a stronger push feel. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Jacaranda may be the better choice. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance, the Mahjong could be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Mahjong linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the Jacaranda switch due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the Mahjong switch more appealing with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for responsiveness versus keypress depth.
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 Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 clacky and resonant typing experience, producing a sharp and crisp sound with each press. This can be attributed to its unique extended spring design that enhances the auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which suggests a moderate level of sound that is suitable for various environments. Depending on personal preference and setup, the Jacaranda switch may provide a more distinctive and immersive typing sound compared to the Mahjong switch.
In terms of feel, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience, making each keystroke feel effortless and refined. The bouncy sensation from the extended spring further enhances the overall typing feel, offering a unique tactile feedback. The Dareu Mahjong linear switch, on the other hand, is described as having a bouncy and mild feel, providing a spring-like rebound when keys are pressed. The polished finish of the Mahjong switch adds to its smooth and refined typing experience. Overall, while both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, the Jacaranda switch may provide a more luxurious and silky feel compared to the Mahjong switch.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jacaranda switch excels in providing a clacky and resonant typing sound with a silky smooth feel, attributed to its extended spring design. On the other hand, the Mahjong switch offers a neutral sound profile and a bouncy, mild feel with a polished finish. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, choosing between these switches will ultimately come down to personal preference and the desired typing feel. Both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience and provide users with a unique feel and sound signature.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force and a gentle typing experience with a bouncy sensation, the Jacaranda switch would be the ideal choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky sound profile and a smooth typing experience, the Jacaranda switch would also be a great option. However, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a bouncy feel, the Mahjong switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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