PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda and Durock Mamba are both linear mechanical keyboard switches with unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda, with its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g and clacky sound signature, offers a fatigue-free typing experience with crisp feedback. On the other hand, the Mamba pays tribute to Kobe Bryant and provides a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience. While the Jacaranda is known for its bouncy keystrokes and high-pitched sound, the Mamba is characterized by its neutral feel and polished sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Durock Mamba offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Jacaranda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the Mamba features a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, resulting in a more pleasant and brighter sound profile. Despite these differences, both housing materials aim to enhance the overall typing experience with their distinct sound properties.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Jacaranda incorporates a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a more rounded sound when typing. On the other hand, the Mamba utilizes a POM bottom housing, known for its pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side. While the sound qualities may differ between the two switches due to their bottom housing materials, both aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience by enhancing the overall sound produced by the switches.
Although the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Durock Mamba offer distinct sound profiles, they both contribute to creating a unique typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda and the blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE top housing of the Mamba each play a significant role in the sound produced when pressing down on the switches. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda and the POM bottom housing of the Mamba impact the sound when bottoming out a key. Overall, while the housing materials may differ between the two switches, they both aim to provide users with a satisfying typing experience through their unique sound properties.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Durock Mamba linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Jacaranda also has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, whereas the Mamba has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Jacaranda switch would be easier to press and type on for longer periods of time, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Mamba switch would provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which may be preferred by some users. Overall, the Jacaranda would be the lighter option between the two, while the Mamba would be the heavier option. Users looking for a more gentle typing experience would benefit from the Jacaranda, while those seeking a more tactile and substantial feel may prefer the Durock Mamba.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch are both 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. In terms of comparison, both switches offer a consistent typing experience with identical travel distances, resulting in similar levels of tactile feedback and keypress responsiveness. Whether you choose the Jacaranda or the Mamba, you can expect a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a travel distance of 3.5 mm.
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 Durock Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch is described as having a neutral and thocky sound, which produces a deep, rich sound that is satisfying to the ears. Depending on your preference, the Jacaranda will give you a more percussive and bright sound, while the Mamba will offer a more moderate and soothing auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Jacaranda is known for its silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness. In contrast, the Durock Mamba offers a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches aim to offer a refined and enjoyable typing feel, with the Jacaranda focusing on smoothness and the Mamba providing a comfortable middle-ground experience.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jacaranda stands out with its clacky sound and silky feel, while the Mamba provides a neutral thocky sound and a mild polished feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches are designed to deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the Jacaranda offering a bouncy sensation and the Mamba delivering a creamy auditory experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force for a fatigue-free typing experience with a bouncy sensation and clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force with a gliding typing sensation and a creamy auditory experience, the Mamba switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
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