PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available, each with its own unique characteristics to cater to different preferences and needs. Two popular switches to consider are the PH Studio Jacaranda, a linear switch, and the Outemu Milk Tea, a tactile switch. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers and ideal for fatigue-free typing sessions. Its clacky sound signature provides crisp and audible feedback with each press, while the extended 22mm spring adds a bouncy sensation to keystrokes, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea offers a different typing experience with its tactile feedback, providing a distinct tactile bump upon actuation. When deciding between these switches, one may prefer the Jacaranda for its smooth and clacky typing experience, while the Milk Tea may be favored for its tactile feedback. 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
N/A
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
Ly
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
Overall, the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Milk Tea switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles and typing experiences. The Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Milk Tea's Ly top housing, which offers a bright and resonant sound signature. Both materials are known for their clarity and ability to enhance RGB lighting due to their translucency. However, the Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Milk Tea also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect.
One key difference between the two switches is the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda contributes to a duller and rounder sound, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the Milk Tea features a consistent use of nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a unified sound profile that offers deep and resonant clacks when typing.
In summary, while both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Milk Tea switches utilize housing materials such as polycarbonate and nylon, their specific combinations in the top and bottom housings lead to unique sound profiles and typing experiences. The Jacaranda's mixture of polycarbonate and nylon creates a contrast between the sharp, high-pitched sound of the top housing and the deeper, fuller sound of the bottom housing. In comparison, the Milk Tea's consistent use of nylon maintains a bright and resonant sound signature throughout the typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force. The Jacaranda requires a gentle 39 grams of force to actuate a keystroke, with a slightly heavier 45 grams needed to bottom out. In contrast, the Milk Tea switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown.
The weight of a switch is an essential factor to consider when choosing the right one for your needs. Those who prefer a lighter touch may enjoy the Jacaranda's lower actuation force, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Milk Tea switch, with its higher actuation force providing a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique benefits, catering to different preferences in typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Milk Tea. The Jacaranda's 3.5 mm travel distance may be more appealing to gamers seeking quicker response times, while the Milk Tea's 4 mm travel distance might provide a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke for those preferring a deeper feel. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their respective travel distances, with the shorter distance of the Jacaranda catering to a need for speed and the longer distance of the Milk Tea offering a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing 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 Milk Tea 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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, information about the sound of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is unknown. If you are looking for a switch with a distinct clacky sound, the Jacaranda would be a suitable choice for you.
Moving on to the feel, the Jacaranda linear switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Unfortunately, there is no information available about the tactile feel of the Outemu Milk Tea switch. If you prefer a smooth typing feel that enhances the overall typing experience, the Jacaranda switch would be a great option.
In conclusion, if you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile along with a silky smooth typing experience, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch would be an excellent choice. While the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch lacks specific information on sound and feel, opting for the Jacaranda switch would likely yield similar satisfying results based on its unique characteristics. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would depend on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prioritize a light keypress and a bouncy typing experience with a crisp, clacky sound profile, then the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a unique name but no specified bottom out force, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch may be worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall keyboard experience. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Choose wisely and enjoy your mechanical keyboard journey!
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