PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the ph Studio Jacaranda and the Dareu Master mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda, known for its 43.5g gentle bottom-out force, stands out with its fatigue-free typing experience and distinct clacky sound signature. In contrast, the Master switch from Dareu offers a medium weight option with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness. Both switches fall under the category of clacky, but they vary in terms of key characteristics such as bottom-out force, sound signature, and overall typing feel. Let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that is right 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
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Dareu Master's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Jacaranda's top housing also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, giving it an added aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, the Master's POM top housing provides a unique sound experience that is on the deeper side, catering to users who prefer a more subdued typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Jacaranda utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. In comparison, the Dareu Master also features POM in its bottom housing, resulting in a similarly deep and muted sound experience. Both switches offer a different tactile and auditory typing experience based on the material used in the bottom housing, showcasing the importance of this component in overall switch performance.
While the top and bottom housings of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Dareu Master differ in material composition, each housing material brings unique qualities to the typing experience. The split between the bottom and top housing means that users will feel the impact of the bottom housing when pressing down on a key, while the sound when releasing the key will be influenced by the top housing material. Despite these differences, both switches offer pleasing and unique sound profiles, catering to different preferences in typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Jacaranda has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, creating a smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Master has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. This means that while the Jacaranda is lighter overall, the Master may provide a more substantial typing feel due to the slightly higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the Jacaranda being better suited for longer typing sessions and the Master offering a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for individuals looking for faster response times, especially gamers. The difference of 0.1 mm may not be noticeable to most users, as both switches are on the shorter end of the spectrum. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for slight variations in travel distance.
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 Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience with each key press. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch also provides a clacky sound signature, ensuring a classic and bright tone during typing sessions. While both switches share a similar clacky sound, the Jacaranda may offer a slightly higher-pitched and resonant sound, depending on the user's preference and the keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This characteristic enhances the overall typing feel, making it a preferred choice for users looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the contrary, the Dareu Master switch offers a mild and polished feel, striking a balance between gentle typing and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Jacaranda focusing on silky smoothness and the Master on a polished finish.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a bouncy sensation and high-pitched, clacky sound, the Master focuses on medium weight, classic clacky sound, and exceptional smoothness. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, typing feel, and typing experience. However, both switches offer quality performance that will satisfy newcomers looking for reliable linear switches for their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch or the Dareu Master linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force, a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, and a clacky sound signature, then the Jacaranda switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch that offers a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, then the Master switch might be more suited to your typing style. Consider factors such as bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on what you prioritize in your typing experience and which features align most closely with your preferences.
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