PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you value in a switch. The Jacaranda, with its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force and clacky sound profile, offers a fatigue-free typing experience and a uniquely bouncy sensation thanks to its extended 22mm spring. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is praised for its smooth keystrokes, buttery smoothness, and pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound, all at a budget-friendly price point. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of a switch is particularly beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as the material's translucency allows for a more vibrant lighting display. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Jacaranda and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) feature nylon housings. Nylon is considered a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a rounder and more muted sound compared to harder plastics. While both switches share the same bottom housing material, the impact of the material on the bottom-out sound and feel will differ between the two switches. This difference in bottom housing material may affect the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a mechanical switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While the Jacaranda and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, such as sharper and crisper sounds from polycarbonate and deeper and fuller sounds from nylon, the differences in housing materials may appeal to different preferences. Whether you prefer a more resonant sound profile from polycarbonate or a softer, more absorbent sound profile from nylon, both switches offer a variety of sound experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it is clear that the Jacaranda is the lighter option. With an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, it provides a soft and light typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has slightly heavier forces, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it a medium-light option. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, with the Jacaranda being more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) catering to those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milky Red Pro has a longer travel distance compared to the Jacaranda. The 0.5 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a difference in the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Jacaranda with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Milky Red Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel each user is looking for in their keyboard.
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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 profile that produces a crisp and sharp sound with each press, creating an audible feedback that some users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a thocky and bassy sound that delivers a deep and rich tone that can be quite pleasing to the ears. Depending on your preference for sound profiles, you can choose between the sharpness of the Jacaranda or the deeper resonance of the Milky Red Pro.
Moving on to the feel, the Jacaranda switch is known for its silky typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth feel that enhances the overall typing comfort and minimizes resistance during key presses. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels seamless and effortless. Whether you prefer a silky smooth typing feel or a buttery smooth sensation, both switches offer a level of tactile satisfaction that can enhance your typing experience.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it's clear that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda excels in producing a clacky sound and providing a silky typing feel, while the Milky Red Pro stands out with its thocky sound and buttery smooth keystrokes. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, rest assured that with either choice, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience that meets your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following factors: if you prioritize a light bottom-out force of 45 grams and enjoy a bouncy typing sensation with a clacky sound profile, then the Jacaranda would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom-out force of 52 grams and value a smooth, buttery keystroke experience with a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound, then the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the sound and feel that you find most comfortable and satisfying.
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