PH Studio Jacaranda vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda and SP-Star Meteor White are two distinct linear mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda, known for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, provides a fatigue-free typing experience with a clacky sound signature that offers crisp and audible feedback. Its extended 22mm spring adds a bouncy sensation to each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Meteor White is characterized by its subdued nature, with a soft type feel and pitter-patter sound profile that is easy to push. While the Jacaranda is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Resonant', the Meteor White is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers unique qualities that may appeal to different users depending on their preferences. 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the SP-Star Meteor White switches offer different sound profiles and aesthetics due to their composition. The Jacaranda features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the Meteor White's nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Jacaranda allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Meteor White absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a rounder sound profile.
Both switches share a nylon bottom housing material, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. Despite the similarities in the bottom housing material, the differences in the top housing of the Jacaranda and Meteor White switches lead to distinct sound experiences. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings influence the impact on the sound and feel of pressing down on a key versus releasing it, showcasing the importance of both components in the overall performance of the switch.
In essence, the choice between the Jacaranda and Meteor White switches lies in the desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences of the user. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda offers a crisper and sharper sound, ideal for those seeking a more defined typing experience with RGB lighting capabilities. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Meteor White provides a deeper and fuller sound, perfect for users looking for a more mellow typing sound. Both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing, offering a consistent depth and fullness to the overall sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jacaranda has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Meteor White has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it slightly heavier. The Jacaranda's lighter force may appeal to individuals who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Meteor White's heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, individuals can choose between the two switches based on their preference for a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Meteor White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jacaranda. The difference may not seem significant, but for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Jacaranda may be preferred. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Meteor White might provide a more satisfying key press for those who enjoy a deeper feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for 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 White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White 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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch provides a more neutral and thocky sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches may produce pleasing sounds depending on personal preference, with the Jacaranda leaning towards a sharper sound and the Meteor White towards a deeper tone.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. Conversely, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch provides a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle and refined typing sensation for the user. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, with the Jacaranda emphasizing silky smoothness and the Meteor White focusing on a polished and refined feel.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda and SP-Star Meteor White linear switches each offer distinct qualities in terms of both sound and feel. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky smooth feel, the Meteor White impresses with a neutral, thocky sound and a mild, polished typing experience. Depending on the individual's preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, though with differing characteristics. To achieve similar results, one can consider factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used in conjunction with these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch or the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force, a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force, a soft and gentle typing experience with a pitter-patter sound profile, the Meteor White could be the better fit. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired feel when making your decision between these two unique switches. Ultimately, the best switch for you will be the one that enhances your typing experience and suits your individual preferences.
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