PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Gateron Mountain Top
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Mountain Top switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Mountain Top mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Jacaranda offers a smooth and gentle typing experience with its low actuation force of 43.5g and a unique 22mm spring that adds a bouncy sensation to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Mountain Top switch from Gateron is designed for quiet and discreet typing, making it perfect for office environments. While the Jacaranda leans towards a clacky sound profile, the Mountain Top switch ensures a subtle and subdued typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, but ultimately the choice between them depends on your personal typing style and environment. 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
The PH Studio Jacaranda and Gateron Mountain Top both utilize different materials for their top housing - polycarbonate and nylon, respectively. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, while the nylon top housing of the Mountain Top produces a deeper and fuller sound as a result of being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the sound profiles generated by these materials differ, they both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences - whether one prefers a clear and resonant sound or a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Jacaranda and Mountain Top opt for a nylon material. This results in both switches eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Despite having different top housings, the shared nylon bottom housing allows for a consistent sound experience when typing on either switch. This shows how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound profile of a switch.
The split between the top and bottom housings in a switch allows for a balance in the sound and feel of pressing and releasing a key. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material for each component of a switch can impact the overall typing experience - whether one prefers a more pronounced bottom-out sound or a distinct sound upon key release. Both the Jacaranda and Mountain Top showcase how the combination of various housing materials can create unique sound profiles that cater to different user preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is 39 grams, slightly lighter than the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch's 40 grams. Both switches have a relatively light actuation force, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jacaranda requires 45 grams while the Mountain Top requires 50 grams, making the Mountain Top slightly heavier in this aspect. The difference in bottom out force means that the Mountain Top switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the Jacaranda switch. Overall, both switches offer a light actuation force but differ in bottom out force, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. The Jacaranda offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes for some users. On the other hand, the Mountain Top's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more responsive feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience desired.
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 Mountain Top 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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, providing a crisp and percussive feedback with each press. On the other hand, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is designed for discretion, offering a more neutral sound profile suitable for office environments. While the Jacaranda leans towards a sharper sound, the Mountain Top aims for a quieter typing experience that won't disrupt professional settings. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the specific environment in which they will be used.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Gateron Mountain Top switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, giving a spring-like feedback and requiring minimal force to activate. The Jacaranda's focus on smoothness contrasts with the Mountain Top's emphasis on a lively rebound when pressed, catering to different preferences in typing sensations. Whether one prefers a mild and gentle typing experience or a more snappy and responsive feel, both switches offer unique qualities tailored to individual preferences.
Considering all the information provided, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky sound and silky smooth typing feel, the Mountain Top prioritizes a neutral sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press sensation. Depending on whether one values a sharper sound or a quieter typing experience, as well as a smooth or bouncy feel, newcomers to mechanical keyboard switches can choose between these two options to achieve their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, providing options for a variety of preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch, consider the specific qualities each switch offers. If you prioritize a light actuation force and a uniquely bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a quiet and easy-to-press switch designed for professional environments, the Mountain Top switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and environment to enhance your overall typing experience.
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