PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch to the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, both offer unique benefits that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda stands out with its gentle bottom-out pressure of 43.5g, 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 Mini i offers a subtle tactile feedback with a muted sound profile, making it ideal for quiet office environments. While the Jacaranda is more distinct and suitable for those who enjoy a bouncier typing experience, the Mini i is perfect for those looking for a subtle and comfortable typing option. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Mini i, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon, being a softer plastic, enhances the sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller sound. This characteristic is particularly evident when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, as the material absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. However, the Jacaranda stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This difference in materials highlights how the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.
On the aesthetic front, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the PH Studio Jacaranda allows for translucency, making it well-suited for RGB lighting. This clear housing material not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to the switch's sound profile by creating a more resonant tone. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i opts for a nylon top housing, maintaining a classic approach to switch materials. While this choice may not offer the same visual effects as polycarbonate, nylon provides a different tactile experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The choice between polycarbonate and nylon top housings ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of aesthetics and sound characteristics.
Overall, both switches showcase the impact of housing materials on sound quality and typing experience. While the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing produces a distinct and clear sound profile, the Gateron Mini i's nylon top housing offers a deeper, fuller tone. Despite these differences, both switches share nylon bottom housings, emphasizing the importance of material selection in achieving specific sound characteristics. Whether prioritizing aesthetics, sound profile, or tactile feedback, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials can significantly influence the overall typing experience with each switch.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, with the Jacaranda being slightly lighter in both aspects. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Mini i has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches provide a light typing experience, the Jacaranda requires slightly less force overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel for extended typing or gaming sessions, either of these switches would be a good choice. However, for those who prefer a slightly firmer typing experience, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch may be the better option due to its slightly higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them well-suited for those seeking a fast response time. However, the Jacaranda has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Mini i. Gamers looking for a balance between depth and responsiveness may prefer the Jacaranda, while those who prefer a slightly shorter travel distance may opt for the Mini i. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, providing users with a reliable and efficient typing or gaming 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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various environments without being overly intrusive. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Jacaranda leaning towards a more intense and feedback-driven auditory experience while the Mini i provides a more balanced and subtle sound output.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall typing comfort. Conversely, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is known for its bouncy and easy-to-press nature, providing a lively and responsive typing feel with minimal effort required. While both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, the Jacaranda emphasizes smoothness and ease of use, while the Mini i focuses on a spring-like rebound sensation and gentle actuation force.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a silky smooth typing feel, while the Mini i offers a more neutral sound output with a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience. Whether you prefer a more intense auditory feedback or a subtle and comfortable typing feel, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a personalized typing experience. Additionally, it's worth noting that depending on the choice of board, keycaps, and overall setup, you can adjust and fine-tune the sound and feel to achieve similar results with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch or the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a light keypress with a bouncy and smooth typing experience, along with a distinctive clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with easy-to-press keys that offer a gentle resistance and a mild typing experience, the Gateron Mini i switch might be more suitable. Consider factors such as sound preference, tactile feedback, and overall typing feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you as you type away on your mechanical keyboard.
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