PH Studio Jacaranda vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the PH Studio Milk Tea are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics for different typing preferences. The Jacaranda, manufactured by KTT, provides a gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers and ideal for fatigue-free typing. It offers a clacky sound signature with a crisp feedback thanks to its extended 22mm spring, giving every keystroke a bouncy sensation. On the other hand, the Milk Tea, made by BSUN, features a high-pitched yet muted sound, striking a balance between presence and subtlety. With a bottom-out force of 43.5g and a stem material made of Ly, it ensures effortless typing for extended periods. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a unique typing experience with its bouncy sensation, the Milk Tea offers a blend of sound that is both distinct and gentle. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and PH Studio Milk Tea both feature unique housing materials that significantly impact the sound profile of the switches. The Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. In contrast, the Milk Tea's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite their differences, both materials are known for their pleasing sound profiles, with the Jacaranda offering a clearer sound and the Milk Tea providing a deeper tone.
In terms of bottom housing, the Jacaranda utilizes nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the POM bottom housing of the Milk Tea. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Milk Tea complements its top housing, emphasizing the deeper and more muted sound profile that this material is known for. Both bottom housings play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Jacaranda and Milk Tea differ in material, each housing material brings unique qualities to the switches. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences between the two switches, users can expect a high-quality sound experience from both the Jacaranda and the Milk Tea, with each housing material offering its own distinct characteristics.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Milk Tea has an actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams. Both switches are relatively light in comparison to other options on the market, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. For those who prefer a stronger push feel, they may opt for switches with heavier forces. In terms of weight, lighter switches like the Jacaranda and Milk Tea are ideal for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions where fatigue may become an issue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for their faster response times. However, the Milk Tea switch offers slightly more depth compared to the Jacaranda switch. If you prefer a more abrupt and responsive feel, the Jacaranda switch may be the better option for you. Conversely, if you prefer a switch with a bit more travel distance and depth, the Milk Tea switch would be the choice to go for. Ultimately, the differences in travel distance between the two switches may be minimal and may result in similar typing experiences overall.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 is characterized by its clacky nature and resonant feedback, offering a sharp and percussive sound profile that is both crisp and bright. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch presents a unique blend of high-pitched tones with a muted essence, striking a balance between presence and subtlety. Both switches provide auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Jacaranda leaning towards a more pronounced sound and the Milk Tea offering a softer, more harmonious tone.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch is labeled as silky, indicating an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance during key presses and releases. In contrast, the PH Studio Milk Tea switch is described as polished and silky, boasting a refined finish that enhances the smoothness of key travel. Both switches prioritize a fluid typing experience, ensuring that users can glide effortlessly through prolonged typing sessions without encountering any unnecessary friction.
Overall, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offer different sound profiles and tactile sensations, they both excel in providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a clacky, resonant feedback or a high-pitched, muted sound, both switches cater to varying preferences while maintaining a consistent level of smoothness and ease of use. Ultimately, users can expect similar levels of satisfaction and performance from either switch, making them reliable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a bouncy typing sensation with a crisp and clacky sound, the Jacaranda with its 22mm spring and light 45g bottom out force is the way to go. On the other hand, if you seek a balance of high-pitched yet muted sound, along with effortless typing due to the use of Ly for the stem material, the Milk Tea with its 43.5g bottom out force is a great choice for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches comes down to your desired typing experience and sound profile.
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