PH Studio Jacaranda vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda and SP-Star Meteor Orange mechanical keyboard switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda, a linear switch, stands out for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out, providing a fatigue-free typing experience with a clacky sound profile and a bouncy sensation thanks to its extended 22mm spring. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange, a tactile switch, boasts a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile. While the Jacaranda offers a more pronounced feedback and a unique typing sensation, the Meteor Orange provides a smooth and mild experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences 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
57g
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
Nylon
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the SP-Star Meteor Orange both feature a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deep and full sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to switches with harder plastic housings. However, the Jacaranda's top housing is made of polycarbonate, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, further enhancing the deep and full sound experience for users.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a similar sound profile, the difference in their top housing materials creates distinct auditory experiences. The Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a clearer and sharper sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Meanwhile, the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a softer and more muted sound when compared to the Jacaranda. Despite both switches utilizing nylon bottom housings, the variation in their top housings showcases the impact different materials can have on the sound and feel of a switch.
In terms of design, the choice of housing materials in the PH Studio Jacaranda and the SP-Star Meteor Orange allows users to customize their typing experience based on their preferences. The Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing provides a visually appealing option for those who enjoy RGB lighting effects, while also delivering a sharper sound profile. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing offers a classic feel with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches demonstrate how the selection of housing materials can influence the overall sound, feel, and aesthetics of mechanical keyboards, catering to a variety of user preferences and typing styles.
Weight
In comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, we see that the Jacaranda has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Meteor Orange's unknown actuation force. Additionally, the Jacaranda has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Meteor Orange has a heavier bottom out force of 57 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Jacaranda switch, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may prefer the Meteor Orange switch. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, and users can choose based on their personal preference for force requirements in their switches.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch provides a slightly deeper key press, which may be more appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to different preferences for keyboard users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more tactile typing experience.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and bright auditory feedback with each press. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate sound that is suitable for various environments. Both switches offer a different sound experience, catering to those who prefer a sharper sound versus a more balanced and versatile option.
When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Meteor Orange switch is described as providing a mild and polished feel, giving users a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel and reduced friction. While the Jacaranda focuses on smoothness, the Meteor Orange offers a more approachable and refined typing feel for users.
Overall, when comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it is evident that they cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Jacaranda switch excels in providing a clacky and bouncy typing experience with its extended 22mm spring, ideal for those who enjoy a sharper sound and silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch offers a neutral sound profile and polished feel, appealing to users looking for a more gentle and refined typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force and a bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force with a soft and seductive tactility, along with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom-out force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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