PH Studio Jacaranda vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer unique typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Jacaranda stands out with its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, making it a comfortable and fatigue-free option for extended typing sessions. Its clacky sound signature and bouncy sensation from the extended 22mm spring add an extra level of satisfaction to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Matcha provides a snappy tactility and clean bottom-out sound, creating a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a resounding and silky typing feel, the Matcha offers a subtly accentuated and feathery tactile response. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Matcha both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through the housing for a visually appealing effect. Despite both switches using polycarbonate for their top housings, they may still offer unique typing experiences based on other housing materials used.
In contrast, the Jacaranda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Matcha utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, similarly enhancing the overall sound profile with a sharper and crisper tone. The difference in bottom housing material between the two switches may impact the typing experience, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys.
Overall, the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Matcha play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a clear and resonant sound, the difference in bottom housing materials, nylon for the Jacaranda and polycarbonate for the Matcha, may result in varying sound characteristics. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help users determine which switch aligns better with their preferences and needs.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the KTT Matcha tactile switch with 40 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 45 grams. The Jacaranda is considered to be the lighter option overall, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming use. On the other hand, the Matcha offers a slightly heavier actuation force for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Despite the slight difference in actuation force, both switches provide a similar bottom out force, ensuring that users will get comparable results whether they choose the Jacaranda or the Matcha. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, it is clear that the Jacaranda has a shorter travel distance at 3.5 mm compared to the Matcha's 4 mm. This means that the Jacaranda will have a slightly quicker key press compared to the Matcha. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Jacaranda for its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper key press may lean towards the Matcha. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their slightly varied travel distances, catering to different preferences and needs.
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 KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 has a clacky and high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and percussive feedback with every press. On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is also described as clacky, offering a crisp and bright sound profile. While the Jacaranda's sound leans towards the sharp and resonant side, the Matcha provides a clean bottom-out sound due to its long pole stem. Therefore, both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience, with the Jacaranda being slightly more resonant in sound.
When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda boasts a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and offering a comfortable feel while typing. In contrast, the Matcha is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. The Matcha provides a unique tactile feedback with two stages, offering a responsive and lively typing experience. With its medium tactile feel, the Matcha allows for a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle, making it suitable for various typing preferences. Overall, both switches offer distinct tactile sensations, with the Jacaranda focusing on smoothness and the Matcha offering a more complex yet comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch each bring their own set of qualities to the table. The Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth feel, ensuring a fatigue-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Matcha offers a snappy and clean sound profile with a stepped, snappy, and feathery feel, giving users a unique tactile sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that is sure to please mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether choosing the Jacaranda or the Matcha, users can expect satisfying results that enhance their overall typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a crisp and clacky sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch would be a great option for you. Its light bottom-out force of 43.5g and extended 22mm spring make typing fatigue-free and enjoyable. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a comfortable and snappy tactility and a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha would be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the specific characteristics that align with your typing style and sound preferences.
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