PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Cherry Nixie both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda, a linear switch, is lauded for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making typing a fatigue-free experience. It produces a clacky sound signature with a crisp feedback, while its extended 22mm spring provides a bouncy sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie, also a linear switch, is known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, thanks to Cherry's recent MX2A update. While the Jacaranda offers a light and bouncy typing experience, the Nixie provides a more traditional and solid feel. Ultimately, when choosing between these switches, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
63.5g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Cherry Nixie both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, creating a deep and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. This commonality means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the keys of both switches. However, the Jacaranda sets itself apart with its polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Nixie's nylon top housing. This difference may appeal to users who prefer a more distinct and resonant typing sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a colorful and vibrant element to the switch. On the other hand, the Nixie's nylon top housing does not offer the same level of translucency, limiting its ability to showcase RGB effects. This distinction may be a key factor for users looking to customize their keyboard with dynamic lighting options. Additionally, the choice of housing material in the top and bottom of the switches will impact both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. Users may find that the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Jacaranda offers a unique typing experience compared to the Nixie's uniform nylon construction.
Overall, both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Cherry Nixie showcase the versatility of different housing materials in creating distinct sound profiles for mechanical switches. While the Nixie's nylon construction provides a deep and fuller sound, the Jacaranda stands out with its polycarbonate top housing offering a sharper and crisper typing experience. Whether users prioritize aesthetic customization or sound quality, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda is lighter in both aspects. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a more gentle option for those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the Nixie features a higher actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a heavier and more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a softer, more effortless typing experience may opt for the Jacaranda, while individuals who enjoy a stronger push and a more pronounced keystroke may find the Nixie to be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Nixie, making it a better option for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Nixie's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become more popular in recent times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, delivering a deep and satisfying tone when pressed. Depending on personal preference, the Jacaranda provides a more bright and percussive sound, while the Nixie offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches for sound quality will depend on the user's preference for a sharper or deeper sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall smoothness. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie switch is noted for its textured feel, which may provide some users with a tactile and frictional feedback during typing. While the Jacaranda prioritizes a smooth and seamless typing feel, the Nixie focuses on offering a more tactile and textured sensation. The decision between the two switches for feel will depend on whether the user prefers a smoother or textured typing experience.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky, high-pitched sound and silky smooth feel, ideal for those seeking a sharp sound feedback and minimal resistance during typing. On the other hand, the Nixie impresses with its thocky, low-pitched sound and textured feel, catering to users who enjoy a deep and satisfying sound experience with a tactile typing feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. You would want to choose the Jacaranda if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 43.5g, a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, and a silky smooth typing experience. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a gentle typing feel and enjoy a more audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, you would opt for the Nixie if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80g, a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, and a textured typing experience. The Nixie is better suited for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel and a deeper, bass-heavy sound. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should align with your personal preferences for typing experience and sound feedback.
Mentioned in this article
