PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch to the BSUN Olive tactile switch, it's evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, making it easy on the fingers and ensuring fatigue-free typing. It produces a clacky sound with its extended 22mm spring, adding a bouncy sensation to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Olive switch boasts an all-POM housing that delivers a deep, resonant sound. Its pronounced tactile feedback and long pole stem create a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out experience. While the Jacaranda provides a silky and high-pitched typing experience, the Olive switch offers an invigorating and snappy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches 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
45g
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
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Bsun Olive both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. While the Jacaranda features a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, the Olive uses a POM top housing for a deeper and more muted sound. Despite their differences in sound profiles, both housing materials are known for their durability and aesthetic appeal. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while the POM housing of the Olive provides a sleek and modern look.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Jacaranda utilizes a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Olive also uses POM for its bottom housing, offering a similar deep and muted sound profile as its top housing. The choice of material for the bottom housing has a significant impact on the overall typing experience, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Both the nylon and POM materials bring their own unique qualities to the switches, enhancing the overall typing experience for users.
While the Jacaranda and Olive switches may differ in their choice of housing materials, both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying sound profile and typing experience. Whether it be the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda or the softer POM bottom housing of the Olive, each material serves a specific purpose in enhancing the overall performance of the switch. In the end, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel, but users can expect high-quality performance and durability from both options.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation and bottom out force compared to the Bsun Olive tactile switch. The Jacaranda requires 39 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a light option. In contrast, the Olive switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Jacaranda for longer typing sessions or gaming, while users who enjoy a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Olive switch for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the right fit for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Jacaranda may provide a slightly more substantial depth to key presses compared to the Olive, which could feel slightly more abrupt. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference for the level of responsiveness and tactile feel 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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the BSUN Olive tactile switch offers a resonant and deep sound, creating a rich and satisfying typing sound. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Jacaranda offering a sharper sound and the Olive delivering a more resonant tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Jacaranda is described as offering a silky typing experience, providing smooth key presses and releases. In contrast, the Olive switch is known for its accented and sharp tactile feedback, offering a pronounced bump with each press. The invigorating and snappy feel of the Olive switch enhances the typing sensation, providing a tactile experience that is both satisfying and responsive.
In conclusion, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the BSUN Olive tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles, both switches excel in providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer the clacky and bouncy nature of the Jacaranda or the resonant and tactile feedback of the Olive, both switches are sure to elevate your typing experience to new heights. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a light and smooth typing experience with a bouncy sensation and clacky sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with pronounced tactile feedback, a sharp bottom-out, and a resonant sound, the BSUN Olive tactile switch would be more suitable for your typing needs. Consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel when making your decision between these two unique switches.
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