PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch offer distinct advantages for different preferences. The Jacaranda, manufactured by KTT, is a linear switch known for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out, making it a comfortable option for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. Its clacky sound signature and unique 22mm spring provide a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow switch offers a tactile feedback for those who prefer a more noticeable actuation point. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The housing materials used in the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, high-pitched sound with a clear and resonant profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing produces a deeper, fuller sound with a duller and rounder profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings, they contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Jacaranda and the Cream Yellow switches provide unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The use of polycarbonate in the Jacaranda's top housing lends to a more transparent and bright sound, ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's nylon top housing offers a warmer and fuller sound that is more absorbent and rounded in nature. Both switches make use of nylon in their bottom housings, further enhancing the typing experience by providing a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of nylon as a switch housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Cream Yellow plays a crucial role in influencing the sound output and tactile feedback of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda contributes to a sharp and clear sound, while the nylon top housing of the Cream Yellow produces a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housings, which impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. Whether seeking a more crisp and resonant typing experience with the Jacaranda or a deeper and rounder sound profile with the Cream Yellow, the housing materials of these switches cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the Jacaranda has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Cream Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Jacaranda make it a good choice for those who prefer a softer typing experience and may be ideal for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Cream Yellow provide a more substantial typing feel, which may be preferred by those who like a more pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference regarding typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Jacaranda being slightly longer by 0.2 mm. This difference may not be noticeable to most users, but for those who are particular about travel distance, the Jacaranda may offer a slightly deeper feel. However, both switches would still provide a relatively fast response time compared to traditional switches with a 4.0 mm travel distance. Ultimately, whether you choose the Jacaranda or Cream Yellow switch will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and how it affects your typing or gaming experience.
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 Outemu Cream Yellow comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, providing a sharp and crisp feedback with each key press. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is not available.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Jacaranda is lauded for its silky smooth typing experience, ensuring minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. However, details regarding the tactile feel of the Cream Yellow switch are unknown.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the Jacaranda linear switch offers a unique typing experience with its bouncy sensation, gentle bottom-out force, and clacky sound profile. In contrast, the specifics of the Cream Yellow tactile switch remain a mystery. Nonetheless, it can be expected that both switches will provide distinct qualities to suit different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for users looking for either linear or tactile options.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force for fatigue-free typing and enjoy a bouncy sensation with a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force and are looking for a switch with a tactile feedback, the Cream Yellow might be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force to ensure an optimal typing experience.
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