PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile switch, it's important to consider the distinct characteristics of each. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers for fatigue-free typing. Its clacky sound signature provides crisp and audible feedback with each press, while the extended 22mm spring adds a bouncy sensation to keystrokes, elevating the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature. While the Jacaranda is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Resonant', the Medium Tactile is 'Accented', 'Stepped', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique benefits, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Durock Medium Tactile feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to their stiffness. This material is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a more vibrant display. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the differences lie in how these materials impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches.
One key distinction between the two switches is in how the qualities of the housing materials are distributed within the switch. The PH Studio Jacaranda splits the qualities between the top and bottom housings, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. In contrast, the Durock Medium Tactile applies both nylon and polycarbonate to the top and bottom housings, respectively, resulting in a unique combination of sound profiles for both pressing down and letting go of keys. This difference in housing material distribution can lead to variations in typing experience for users of each switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Durock Medium Tactile comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. While both switches offer sharp, crisp sound profiles with their polycarbonate top housings, the use of nylon in the bottom housings adds depth and fullness to the sound. Whether one prefers a more resonant sound with a stiffer top housing or a duller sound with a softer bottom housing will determine which switch is the better fit. Overall, both switches bring their unique qualities to the table, providing users with a customizable typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch differ significantly. The Jacaranda has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Medium Tactile has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Jacaranda requires less force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the Medium Tactile. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Jacaranda would be the better choice, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile would be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas the Medium Tactile has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Jacaranda will provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers or those looking for a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Medium Tactile switch offers a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback when typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 that is sharp and crisp, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as having a jelly-like sound signature; although it is not specified further, it likely offers a softer and more muted sound compared to the Jacaranda. Depending on your preference, the Jacaranda may be more appealing if you enjoy a more pronounced and audible typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda is known for its silky smooth typing experience, ensuring minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This characteristic enhances the overall smoothness of typing and contributes to a comfortable typing session. The Durock Medium Tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as accented, stepped, mild, and polished. This suggests that it provides a nice balance of tactility without being overwhelming, offering a pleasant typing experience with a refined finish. Ultimately, both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile switch each bring their own strengths to the table. The Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky sound profile and silky smooth typing feel, ideal for those who prefer a more audible feedback and minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, appealing to users looking for a tactile switch with a softer auditory experience. Depending on your personal preferences, you can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either of these switches, knowing that they both offer unique qualities that set them apart in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, it really depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and bouncy switch with a clacky sound profile that minimizes fatigue during long typing sessions, the Jacaranda may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy switch with a balanced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile could be more to your liking. Ultimately, it's all about finding the switch that suits your typing needs and preferences the best.
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