PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it becomes evident that both switches offer unique advantages for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Jacaranda, with its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g and clacky sound signature, provides a comfortable and satisfying typing experience that is easy on the fingers and delivers crisp feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch, while lacking specific standout features, offers a tactile bump that some users prefer for enhanced typing accuracy. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
2.00 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
Both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Purple feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. The clear housing of polycarbonate is also ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, making it visually appealing for users looking to customize their keyboards. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda and Purple switches differs in sound profile, with nylon producing a deeper and fuller sound compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housings, the differences in their bottom housing materials create distinct sound profiles. The Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound upon typing, while the Purple's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a similar effect. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing. This combination of materials in each switch allows for unique typing experiences based on the specific qualities of their housing materials.
When comparing the impact of the different housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's evident that the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The softer nature of the nylon bottom housing in both the Jacaranda and Purple switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the top housing material, in this case, polycarbonate, has a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials in the switches results in a balanced typing experience with a combination of sharp and crisp sounds from the polycarbonate top housing and the deeper, fuller tones from the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and Outemu Purple tactile switch differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Jacaranda switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Purple switch's heavier 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Jacaranda requires 45 grams while the Purple force is unknown. The Jacaranda switch offers a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions, while the Purple switch provides a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Both switches have their own merits depending on the user's preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, we can see that the Jacaranda has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the Purple falls within the more common 4.0mm range, while the Jacaranda is on the shallower end at 3.5mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Jacaranda's shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Purple with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of desired key feel and response.
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 Purple 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 leans towards a clacky sound profile, providing a crisp and sharp auditory feedback with each press. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound profile of the Outemu Purple tactile switch. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard construction, keycaps, and typing technique.
When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda switch is characterized as offering a silky typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and minimizing resistance during key presses. Unfortunately, there is no information available about the tactile feel of the Outemu Purple switch.
Overall, while the Jacaranda linear switch excels in providing a tactile and bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the specific qualities of the Outemu Purple tactile switch remain unknown. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, you can expect similar results with the Jacaranda switch if you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a distinct clacky sound profile. Remember to consider other factors like keycaps and keyboard construction when evaluating the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you value a light bottom-out force, a gentle and fatigue-free typing experience, a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, and a clacky sound profile, then the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch with an unspecified bottom-out force and are indifferent about sound and feel characteristics, the Purple could be an option to consider. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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