PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it's important to note their distinct characteristics. The Jacaranda, manufactured by KTT, stands out for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers and ideal for fatigue-free typing. It also offers a clacky sound signature, providing crisp feedback with every press. The extended 22mm spring in the Jacaranda gives each keystroke a uniquely bouncy sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean does not have any standout features mentioned. While the Jacaranda is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, the Silent Ocean remains a mystery in terms of its sound profile. Both switches have their unique qualities that may cater 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Silent Ocean, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, which enhances clarity and resonance in sound output. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting for added visual appeal. However, while both switches share this common feature in their top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing material.
The Jacaranda features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound effect. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the classic switch housing material's ability to enhance typing experience with a deep and full sound profile. Despite the shared nylon material in their bottom housings, the switches distinguish themselves in their overall sound output, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
While both the Jacaranda and the Silent Ocean employ polycarbonate for their top housing and nylon for their bottom housing, the differences lie in how these materials affect the sound profile and overall typing experience of the switches. The stiffer polycarbonate in the top housing results in a clear and resonant sound, enhanced by its translucency for RGB lighting integration. On the other hand, the softer nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile that adds to the tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the combination of these materials in different parts of the switches contributes to distinct sound qualities and typing feel, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining overall switch performance.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Jacaranda requires 45 grams, while the Silent Ocean needs 65 grams, making it heavier. This means that the Jacaranda switch would be preferred by those looking for a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Silent Ocean switch would appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, we can see that the Jacaranda has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Silent Ocean. The Jacaranda offers a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers who value faster keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean provides a slightly deeper keypress, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Jacaranda offering a shorter travel distance for quicker responses and the Silent Ocean providing a longer travel distance for a more tactile 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 Silent Ocean 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 comparing the subjective qualities of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda offers a distinct sound profile characterized as clacky, high-pitched, and resonant. This creates a sharp and crisp typing experience that is audibly satisfying. In contrast, the sound profile of the Silent Ocean remains unknown. Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Jacaranda is described as providing a silky smooth typing experience, reducing resistance and ensuring a comfortable feel with each key press. Unfortunately, the feel of the Silent Ocean switch is unspecified. Overall, while the Jacaranda boasts a unique bouncy sensation due to its extended spring and offers a clacky sound signature, the Silent Ocean's qualities remain a mystery. If one were to choose between the two based on sound and feel preferences alone, the Jacaranda would be the clear choice for a tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force, a gentle typing experience that minimizes fatigue, and enjoy a clacky sound with a unique bouncy sensation, the Jacaranda may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and are looking for a silent typing experience without any specific sound or feel preferences, the Silent Ocean may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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