PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Outemu Dustproof Black
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Dustproof Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Dustproof Black are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda, with its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force and clacky sound signature, provides a fatigue-free typing experience and a crisp feedback with each press. The extended 22mm spring also gives each keystroke a bouncy sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Dustproof Black does not have any specific standout features mentioned, but it may appeal to those who prefer a more straightforward and standard linear switch. Both switches have their own strengths and weaknesses, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
60g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Dustproof Black both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housings. The Jacaranda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Black also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile.
In terms of sound and feel, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, as the softer nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the top housing has a more pronounced impact on the sound when a key is released, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch. Despite having different bottom housings, both the Jacaranda and Dustproof Black offer a similar typing experience, with the nylon material enhancing the sound and feel of each keystroke.
Overall, both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Dustproof Black offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials. While they share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound for a unique typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile from the polycarbonate top housing or a deeper, fuller sound profile from the nylon bottom housing, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience with distinct audio feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda is lighter while the Dustproof Black is heavier. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for longer periods. In contrast, the Dustproof Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Those who enjoy a lighter typing experience may find the Jacaranda more suitable, while those looking for a heavier and more tactile typing experience may opt for the Dustproof Black. Ultimately, the differing actuation and bottom out forces of the two switches provide users with the option to choose based on their preferences for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dustproof Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jacaranda. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the Jacaranda falls into the category of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times, while the 4 mm travel distance of the Dustproof Black offers a slightly deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired level of responsiveness in typing or gaming.
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 Dustproof Black 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
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, which provides a crisp and audible feedback with each press. This sound is further enhanced by the extended 22mm spring, offering a uniquely bouncy sensation to each keystroke. In contrast, the sound profile of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare with the Jacaranda. When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Again, the feel of the Dustproof Black switch is unknown, making it challenging to compare with the Jacaranda in this aspect.
Overall, if you opt for the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, you can expect a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth typing experience due to its unique characteristics. On the other hand, the qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Black switch remain unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare with the Jacaranda. If you appreciate the sound and feel of the Jacaranda, you may want to consider trying out the Outemu Dustproof Black switch to see if you can achieve similar results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter actuation force, a bouncy typing sensation, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and are indifferent towards sound profiles, the Dustproof Black could be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing habits, preferences, and requirements to make an informed decision on which switch will enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths and cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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