PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and Cherry MX Purple RGB present two distinct yet compelling choices. The Jacaranda, a linear switch crafted by KTT, captivates with its gentle 43.5g bottom-out, making it a fantastic option for those seeking a smooth and fatigue-free typing experience. Its clacky and resonant sound profile adds an auditory flair to each keystroke, while the innovative 22mm spring offers a delightful bounciness that elevates the overall feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is designed for users who appreciate a tactile bump with medium resistance, fostering a more engaged typing experience. This switch, developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiasts, provides a satisfying feel without being overly noisy, making it suitable for both gaming and professional environments. While each switch caters to different preferences—linear enthusiasts may gravitate towards the Jacaranda's smoothness and sound, while tactile users might lean towards the Cherry MX's structural feedback—understanding their unique characteristics will help you make an informed choice. 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
N/A
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
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Cherry MX Purple RGB, a marked distinction can be observed in their top housings. The Jacaranda utilizes polycarbonate for its upper housing, which significantly influences its sound profile. This material's rigidity allows for sharper, crisper auditory feedback during key presses, leading to a resonant sound that many typists and gamers may prefer. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound rather than amplifying it. This results in a deeper, rounder sound profile that can appeal to users seeking a more subdued auditory experience. The choice of material for the top housing thus influences not only the typing acoustics but also the aesthetic compatibility with RGB lighting, as polycarbonate's translucency allows for vibrant illumination.
In examining the bottom housings of both switches, an interesting similarity emerges. Each switch opts for nylon in its bottom housing, allowing for a consistent character in sound and feel. As both switches utilize this softer plastic, users can expect a deep and full auditory experience when pressing down on keys. The nylon's ability to absorb sound plays a critical role in shaping the bottom-out feel. This uniform use of nylon contributes to the tactile feedback experienced during key presses and ensures that both switches share similarities in terms of how they feel during typing – despite contrasting sound profiles presented by their respective top housings.
Ultimately, the differences in top housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and Cherry MX Purple RGB create a nuanced typing experience while maintaining a consistent feel owing to their shared nylon bottom housings. When pressed, the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top allows for higher-pitched resonance, while the MX Purple RGB's nylon top rounds out the sound. However, both switches align in the depth of sound and physical feel provided by their nylon bottoms, ensuring a cohesive auditory experience during typing. By combining these varied elements, users can either embrace the unique sounds characterizing each option or consider how mixed materials can yield a personalized touch to their mechanical keyboard experience.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch present distinct characteristics in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Jacaranda features a light actuation force of 39 grams, with a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, suggesting it may provide a more substantial feel during key presses. However, the bottom out force for the MX Purple is unknown, which leaves some ambiguity in comparing the overall experience of bottoming out. If the bottom out force were to be determined and found to exceed 45 grams, it would reinforce the heavier profile of the MX Purple. With the Jacaranda being the lighter option, it caters to those seeking comfort over prolonged use, whereas the Cherry MX Purple, due to its heavier actuation force, may appeal more to users who enjoy a firmer push-back while typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, it's clear that there is a notable difference. The Jacaranda switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. For gamers and those seeking quicker response times, the Jacaranda’s shorter travel distance may be more appealing, as it allows for faster key presses. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple, with its greater travel distance, might provide a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users prefer, resulting in a more controlled typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences, whether one leans toward responsiveness or a more substantial key press.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 resonant qualities, producing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback with each keystroke. The sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, creating an engaging auditory experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch does not have a specific sound profile provided, which leaves its auditory characteristics less defined. However, it is worth noting that sound can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard's construction and keycap selection, meaning that both switches could serve similar sound dynamics in practical use, depending on the build.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda switch offers an exceptionally silky typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing the overall smoothness of each keystroke. This delightful bounciness, amplified by its unique 22mm spring, contributes to a satisfying tactile sensation that can make long typing sessions enjoyable. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches provide a refined tactile experience characterized by a short, medium-strength bump. While the specific tactile qualities of the MX Purple RGB aren't detailed here, its tactile feedback has been developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiasts, suggesting it also aims to provide a satisfying experience but may differ significantly from the Jacaranda's silky smoothness.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch each occupy unique niches within the mechanical keyboard landscape. The Jacaranda excels in sound with its crisp and clacky profile and provides a smooth and bouncy typing experience. Meanwhile, while the MX Purple RGB's auditory characteristics are less defined, it is built for a refined tactile experience, likely focusing on providing a good tactile feedback without the same smoothness or auditory clarity of the Jacaranda. Ultimately, your choice may depend on personal preferences regarding sound and tactile feel, but both switches can potentially deliver satisfying results within their respective attributes.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience with a pronounced clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda is an excellent choice. Its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5 grams combined with the extended 22mm spring gives you a bouncy sensation that enhances your overall comfort and reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. This makes it particularly appealing if you engage in extensive typing or gaming, where a smooth and enjoyable keystroke can significantly enhance your experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a balanced tactile switch that provides defined feedback without compromising on comfort, the Cherry MX Purple RGB might be the better option. The tactile bump delivers clear feedback with each press, which can improve your typing accuracy, especially for those who enjoy typing at a brisk pace. Additionally, its robust construction ensures longevity, making it a reliable choice for varied applications. Ultimately, aligning your choice with your preferred typing dynamics—whether it's the silky smoothness and auditory enjoyment of the Jacaranda or the tactile precision of the MX Purple RGB—will ensure that you find the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
