PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch offer distinct typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, ensuring comfortable typing without fatigue. Its clacky sound signature and unique 22mm spring provide a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, making it a popular choice for those seeking a tactile and audible feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold switch offers a different typing experience, although less information is available about it. While the Jacaranda is ideal for those who prefer a clacky and resonant typing experience, the Gold switch may appeal to users looking for a different feel. 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
1.80 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
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 housing materials used in the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Gold switches are quite similar in terms of the top housing being made of polycarbonate in both cases. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile and is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the nylon bottom housing in the Jacaranda switch provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Gold switch, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The split between the two different housing materials in each switch impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on them.
One key difference between the housing materials of the Jacaranda and the Gold switches is how they affect the sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches creates a clear and resonant sound, but the Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Gold's nylon bottom housing. This difference results in a unique typing experience for each switch, as the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Overall, these differences in housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles for the Jacaranda and the Gold switches.
In conclusion, while both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Gold switches feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and higher-pitched sound profile, the differences lie in their bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Gold switch results in a duller and rounder sound. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in each switch impacts the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. It's these nuances in housing materials that ultimately differentiate the sound profiles of the Jacaranda and the Gold switches.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Jacaranda requires 45 grams to fully press down, while the Gold switch requires 60 grams. This means that the Jacaranda provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a gentler touch. In contrast, the Outemu Gold switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to users who enjoy a tactile and responsive keystroke. Both switches provide different levels of feedback and typing experiences, ultimately catering to different preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have different travel distances. The Jacaranda has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gold has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Gold. For those who prefer a faster response time, the Jacaranda may be the preferred option. On the other hand, the Gold switch with a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who enjoy a deeper actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Gold 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 offers a clacky and high-pitched profile, providing a sharp and audible feedback with each keystroke. This sound profile is further enhanced by the resonant quality of the switch, creating a clean and sharp auditory experience. In comparison, the Outemu Gold clicky switch's sound profile is unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This characteristic enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel, providing a comfortable and satisfying typing experience. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch is unknown.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch stands out for its gentle bottom-out force, bouncy sensation due to the extended spring, clacky and high-pitched sound profile, and silky smooth typing feel. On the other hand, information regarding the Outemu Gold clicky switch is limited. It is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches, as both offer unique qualities that can cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, it is recommended to try out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and fatigue-free typing experience with a bouncy sensation in each keystroke, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. The light bottom-out force and clacky sound signature make it a great option for those who prioritize comfort and auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force and are looking for a clicky switch without specific descriptors for sound and feel, the Outemu Gold clicky switch could be the better fit for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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