PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch with the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, providing a comfortable typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. Its clacky sound signature and uniquely bouncy sensation from the extended 22mm spring set it apart, offering a satisfying feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch does not have any specific standout features mentioned, suggesting a more standard clicky switch experience. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a silky and resonant typing experience, the Milk Blue may appeal to those seeking a more traditional clicky switch. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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 housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Milk Blue switches both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that aim for a precise typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboards featuring these switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches feature nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to users seeking a quieter typing experience. Despite the differences in the top and bottom housing materials, the qualities of each material contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing, with the bottom housing having more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release.
While the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Milk Blue switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the specific characteristics of each material result in unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The Jacaranda's stiffer polycarbonate top housing may produce a sharper sound compared to the Milk Blue's crisper sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. These differences in materials showcase the importance of housing materials in influencing the overall typing experience and sound profile of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch have different actuation forces and bottom out forces, making them suitable for different preferences. The Jacaranda has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, offering a smooth and easy typing experience. In contrast, the Milk Blue has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, providing a more significant push feel. However, the bottom out force for the Milk Blue is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may opt for the Jacaranda, while individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Milk Blue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Milk Blue switch's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke depth for those who prefer a more pronounced feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Milk Blue 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 stands out for its clacky nature, delivering a sharp and audible feedback with each press. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, based on the information available, the Jacaranda's sound profile leans towards a sharp and crisp tone, which may differ from the Milk Blue's sound signature. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build, keycaps used, and typing technique.
Moving on to the feel, the Jacaranda switch is highlighted for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance and a seamless keypress. In contrast, there is no specific feel descriptor provided for the Milk Blue switch, again making it challenging to make a direct comparison. Nevertheless, the Jacaranda's reputation for providing a frictionless typing sensation sets it apart in terms of feel. It's important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the ideal switch feel, so trying out both switches firsthand is advisable to determine which suits your typing style and preferences best.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jacaranda is known for its clacky sound profile and silky typing feel, the Milk Blue's specific characteristics in these aspects are not explicitly stated. To achieve similar sound and feel results for both switches, it is recommended to consider factors such as keyboard build, keycap material, and individual typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Jacaranda and Milk Blue switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch or the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it really comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a light touch and a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, along with a clacky sound profile, then the Jacaranda switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a high-pitched sound and are not concerned about bottom-out force, the Milk Blue switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision.
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