PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Cherry MX Speed Silver stand out as top contenders, both offering unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda, a linear switch, is renowned for its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. With a clacky sound profile and an extended 22mm spring for a bouncy feel, the Jacaranda provides a satisfying typing experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver, also a linear switch, is designed for maximum speed and responsiveness, with low spring resistance that triggers instantaneously. This switch is ideal for gamers looking to gain a competitive edge with quick and precise keystrokes. 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
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, we see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This shared quality in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a similar typing experience in terms of sound when pressing down on the keys. However, any noticeable differences in sound may come from the other housing material used in each switch.
On the other hand, the top housing of the Jacaranda features polycarbonate, while the MX Speed Silver utilizes nylon for its top housing. Polycarbonate is stiffer and creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, nylon in the MX Speed Silver's top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, resulting in a more muffled and rounded sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This difference in top housing materials may provide a contrasting typing experience in terms of sound when releasing a key.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through the use of quality materials. While the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and clearer sound profile ideal for RGB lighting, the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. The shared nylon bottom housing creates a consistent typing experience in terms of sound when pressing down on the keys. Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that the MX Speed Silver is the lighter option. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the MX Speed Silver has an actuation force of 30 grams (which is lighter than the Jacaranda) and an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the MX Speed Silver may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier bottom out force of the Jacaranda may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers often prefer shorter distances for quicker response times, making the MX Speed Silver a popular choice in that regard. However, some users may find the Jacaranda's slightly longer travel distance to provide a more satisfying depth to each key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver 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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is described as producing a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving a crisp and bright feedback with each press. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying tone. Depending on personal preference, the Jacaranda's sound might cater more to those who enjoy a sharp and percussive noise, while the MX Speed Silver appeals to users who prefer a richer and bassier sound.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda linear switch provides a silky typing experience, offering an exceptionally smooth feel with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is noted for its textured or scratchy feel, which some users may find adds a layer of feedback and tactility to their typing. For individuals who prioritize a smooth and friction-free typing experience, the Jacaranda switch would be the preferred choice, whereas those who appreciate a bit of texture may lean towards the MX Speed Silver switch.
Taking all the available information into account, it's clear that the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky sound and silky feel, the MX Speed Silver stands out with its thocky sound and textured feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, typing experience, and overall performance. However, it's worth noting that both switches offer exceptional performance and responsiveness, so regardless of choice, users can expect top-notch quality in their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider your primary use case. If you prioritize a light and bouncy typing experience with a crisp clacky sound, the Jacaranda is the way to go. Its gentle bottom-out force and extended 22mm spring offer a fatigue-free typing experience ideal for long typing sessions. On the other hand, if speed and rapid response are your top priorities, the MX Speed Silver is the better choice. With its instantaneous triggering and full-height design, it is perfect for gaming where every millisecond counts. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you value a smooth and silky typing feel or a textured and responsive one. Choose wisely based on your preferences and needs.
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