PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch offer distinct experiences for mechanical keyboard users. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making typing fatigue-free and comfortable. It produces a clacky sound signature with crisp feedback, and its extended 22mm spring provides a bouncy sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf's characteristics are not clearly defined in the provided information. If you prefer a linear switch with a unique typing experience, the Jacaranda may be the way to go. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Maple Leaf both feature top housings made of different materials, with the Jacaranda using polycarbonate and the Maple Leaf using nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, creating a more resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both materials have their own unique sound characteristics, catering to different preferences in sound quality.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Jacaranda and the Maple Leaf utilize nylon, which enhances the deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder sound. The nylon bottom housing of both switches complements the top housing material, providing consistency in sound quality throughout the typing experience. Despite having different top housing materials, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a similar sound profile for the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of each keystroke. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda creates a clear and resonant sound, the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf produces a deeper and fuller sound. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches maintains consistency in sound quality, enhancing the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper and higher-pitched sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Maple Leaf offer unique qualities based on their housing materials.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a light touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. In comparison, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, with the Jacaranda being lighter and the Maple Leaf being medium-heavy. This difference in weight can cater to a variety of preferences, whether one prefers a light and effortless typing experience or a more tactile and responsive feel. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. The Jacaranda switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a bit more depth and feedback when typing compared to the Maple Leaf switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness 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 Outemu Maple Leaf 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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and sharp auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has no specific sound descriptors provided, so it is uncertain how it compares in terms of sound. It is important to note that sound can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a comfortable sensation with each press. In contrast, there is no information available regarding the tactile feel of the Maple Leaf switch. Without further details, it is difficult to compare the two switches in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing feel.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a unique typing experience characterized by a gentle 43.5g actuation force, clacky sound profile, and silky smooth feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch does not have specific information available regarding its sound and feel qualities. If the objective is to achieve a similar typing experience to the Jacaranda switch, it may be best to consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feedback when selecting a switch to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it's important to consider your personal typing preferences. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force, a bouncy typing sensation, and a clacky sound profile, then the Jacaranda switch might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a tactile typing experience without a defined sound profile, the Maple Leaf switch could better suit your needs. Remember to also consider factors such as key feel and overall typing experience when making your decision. Happy typing!
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