PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Gateron North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Jacaranda, with its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force and clacky sound signature, provides a fatigue-free typing experience with a satisfying audible feedback. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 is known for its gummy and creamy typing feel, along with a deep and muted sound profile. While the Jacaranda boasts a bouncy sensation with its extended 22mm spring, the North Pole V2 offers a polished and subdued typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron North Pole V2 lies in their bottom housing. While the Jacaranda features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic, the North Pole V2 opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast results in distinct typing experiences for users of each switch, with the Jacaranda offering a more muted and rounder sound compared to the North Pole V2's clearer and more resonant sound.
On the other hand, both the Jacaranda and the North Pole V2 share a commonality in their polycarbonate top housing material. This results in both switches having a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when compared to switches with different top housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for the utilization of RGB lighting, making these switches a popular choice among gamers and enthusiasts looking to customize their keyboards with vibrant lighting effects. Therefore, those who prioritize sound clarity and aesthetics in their keyboard switches may find both the Jacaranda and the North Pole V2 to be suitable options.
In summary, while the Jacaranda and the North Pole V2 may differ in their bottom housing materials, they both provide users with a distinct typing experience characterized by their polycarbonate top housing. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile offered by nylon or a sharper and crisper sound profile provided by polycarbonate, both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics in keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Jacaranda switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the North Pole V2 switch boasts a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push. Those who opt for the Jacaranda can enjoy a lighter typing experience that may be better suited for longer typing sessions or gaming, while users of the North Pole V2 will appreciate the heavier force for a more pronounced keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda switch provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers who value speed. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether one prefers a shorter or longer travel distance for their keyboard typing or gaming needs.
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 North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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, giving users a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each press. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a more subdued sound, with a dampened and subtle sound signature. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the sharper and brighter sound of the Jacaranda or the quieter and more subdued sound of the North Pole V2.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Jacaranda is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the North Pole V2 is characterized as gummy, providing a unique typing sensation akin to bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. Additionally, the North Pole V2 also offers a creamy typing experience, allowing fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys with a smooth and buttery feel. Users can choose between the silky smoothness of the Jacaranda or the chewy and bouncy feel of the North Pole V2 for their typing preferences.
Considering all available information, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jacaranda provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky typing feel, the North Pole V2 offers a more subdued sound profile with a gummy, creamy, and bouncy typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the sharp and smooth characteristics of the Jacaranda or the muted and chewy sensations of the North Pole V2 switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences for an enhanced typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy typing sensation with a clacky sound, the Jacaranda switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a gummy, subdued typing feel, the North Pole V2 switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you wish to achieve. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.
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