PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Outemu Brown

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference and specific typing needs. On one hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a smooth and effortless typing experience, characterized by a gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it particularly inviting for long typing sessions. Its distinctive clacky sound adds a layer of auditory feedback that many users find pleasing, while the extended 22mm spring provides a bouncy feel that enhances overall enjoyment. In contrast, the Outemu Brown tactile switch caters to those who appreciate a more pronounced feedback with every keystroke. While specific sound characteristics were not noted, tactile switches like the Outemu Brown are generally favored for their ability to provide clear actuation points without the additional noise of a clicky switch. Each switch caters to different typing styles—whether one prefers the blissful smoothness and auditory feedback of the Jacaranda or the tactile response of the Outemu Brown. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.

By the numbers

PH Studio Jacaranda Linear

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.90

$3.30 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Brown switches share a commonality in their top housing material, which is made from polycarbonate. This shared characteristic allows both switches to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, a direct result of polycarbonate's stiffer structure. Its translucency is advantageous for users who wish to utilize RGB lighting, as the light can pass through the housing effectively. Consequently, both the Jacaranda and the Brown can deliver a visually appealing experience while also ensuring a clear and resonant auditory feedback, thereby enhancing the overall typing experience.

While the top housings of the Jacaranda and the Outemu Brown are identical in material and sound profile, the bottom housings differ. The Jacaranda employs a nylon bottom housing, characterized by its ability to absorb sound more effectively due to nylon's softer plastic properties. This creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the top housing, which primarily influences the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the Outemu Brown also features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar auditory experience regarding the decay of sound when the key is pressed and subsequently released. This shared nylon material ensures that both switches retain a distinct tactical feel and dampening properties.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing for both the Jacaranda and Brown claves a balanced acoustic profile that enhances the way they sound and feel during typing. While the top housing contributes to the clarity of the initial keystroke sound, the bottom housing's nylon composition enriches the return sound with depth. Therefore, despite the stylistic differences in branding and design, both switches deliver comparable auditory experiences rooted in the properties of their housing materials, ultimately contributing to enhanced user satisfaction across various typing scenarios.

Weight

When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, a notable difference in actuation and bottom out forces emerges. The Jacaranda features a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it conducive for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it requires less effort to press. In contrast, the Outemu Brown has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial, tactile typing experience. While the actuation force of the Jacaranda is significantly lighter than that of the Brown, this results in a more effortless keystroke, which may benefit users who type for long periods. Conversely, the heavier forces of the Outemu Brown provide a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke, appealing to typists who appreciate a stronger push feel. Ultimately, if one prefers a lighter switch for comfort during prolonged use, the Jacaranda is the better choice; however, for those who favor a tangible, tactile experience, the heavier Brown switch would be more suitable.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch to the Outemu Brown tactile switch, a noticeable difference arises. The Jacaranda switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Brown offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Jacaranda provides a more responsive experience, which may be appealing to gamers seeking quicker actuation times, whereas the Brown switch, with its extra depth, offers a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users may find more satisfying. In essence, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Jacaranda would be the better choice, while those who prefer a heartier feel might lean towards the Brown switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch stands out with its clacky profile, characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive audio feedback with each keystroke. This sharp sound signature can create an engaging typing environment, making the experience feel more dynamic and lively. In contrast, while the Outemu Brown does not have a specific sound profile mentioned, it is generally categorized as a tactile switch, which typically produces a quieter thock sound compared to linear switches. The Jacaranda’s clackiness might appeal to those who enjoy an audible typing experience, while the Brown's expected subdued qualities may attract users who prefer a quieter operation. Ultimately, the sound produced will also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and the keycap materials used.

In terms of feel, the Jacaranda’s characteristics include a notably silky smoothness, providing a seamless typing experience that reduces resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This smooth action allows typists to glide effortlessly across the keyboard, enhancing comfort and reducing fatigue during extended use. The gentle bottom-out of 43.5g contributes to an easy and satisfying keypress. Meanwhile, the Outemu Brown's tactile nature—though specifics are not provided—suggests that it would offer tactile feedback, which typically involves a noticeable bump when the actuation point is reached. This feedback can be satisfying for many typists who enjoy knowing exactly when their keystrokes register, thus potentially making it less slippery than a linear switch like the Jacaranda.

In summary, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Jacaranda’s clacky, high-pitched sound and silky smoothness offer a vibrant and engaging typing experience, making it ideal for users who prioritize auditory feedback and fluid keystrokes. On the other hand, the Brown switch, with its expected tactile nature, would appeal to those who prefer a quieter, more precise typing experience with tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will hinge on individual typing habits and experiences.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you're looking for a switch that offers a light and effortless typing experience, the Jacaranda would be an excellent choice. Its gentle bottom-out force of 45 grams makes it perfect for prolonged typing sessions without causing finger fatigue, while its clacky sound profile adds an engaging auditory element to your typing. The silky feel and the distinctive bouncy sensation, courtesy of the extended spring, will certainly enhance your overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback and a firmer press, the Outemu Brown might suit you better. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams provides a more deliberate feel with each keystroke, making it ideal for users who appreciate the feedback that tactile switches offer, especially during gaming or intensive typing tasks. Ultimately, consider what elements matter most to you—whether it's lightness and sound enjoyment with the Jacaranda or the tactile satisfaction of the Brown—as that will guide you toward the switch that complements your typing style best.

Mentioned in this article

PH Studio Jacaranda Linear

$3.90

$3.30 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more