PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Silent White are two distinct linear mechanical keyboard switches with their own unique characteristics. The Jacaranda, manufactured by KTT, is recognized for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers and perfect for fatigue-free typing. It also boasts a clacky sound signature, providing a crisp and audible feedback with every press. What truly sets the Jacaranda apart is its extended 22mm spring, giving each keystroke a bouncy sensation that elevates the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White is a quieter linear switch compared to the Jacaranda, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. It lacks the distinct characteristics of the Jacaranda but excels in providing a silent typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and specific needs. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Silent White switches, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. However, while they share this common feature, the Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent White also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile during typing.
Despite both switches incorporating polycarbonate for their top housing, the differences between their nylon bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of each switch. The choice of nylon in the bottom housing of the Jacaranda contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile, whereas the Silent White's nylon bottom housing also offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. This distinction showcases how the choice of bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience and sound quality of a switch. Furthermore, the split between top and bottom housing materials in a switch influences how different aspects of sound and feel are perceived when typing.
In conclusion, the housing materials used in both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Silent White switches contribute to their unique sound profiles. While both switches share polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, the differences in their nylon bottom housings result in varying sound qualities during typing. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in each switch creates a balance between a clear, resonant sound and a deeper, fuller sound experience. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials plays a critical role in shaping the overall typing feel and sound output of mechanical switches.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch have notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Jacaranda switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Silent White switch with 45 grams, making the Jacaranda easier to type on initially. However, when bottoming out, the Jacaranda requires 45 grams of force, whereas the Silent White needs 60 grams, indicating that the Silent White provides a more substantial typing experience. While both switches have similar actuation forces, the difference in bottom out force means that users who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Jacaranda, while those who prefer a heavier, more tactile feel may opt for the Silent White for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience and user preference.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both of these switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Jacaranda with its 3.5 mm travel distance may provide a slightly deeper press compared to the Silent White with its 3.3 mm travel distance, but the difference is minimal. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance that caters to those seeking a more responsive typing or gaming 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 White 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
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a unique typing experience with its clacky sound profile and bouncy keystrokes, thanks to its 22mm extended spring. The switch is easy on the fingers with a gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White linear switch's sound profile is not documented, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison. When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda provides a silky typing experience, offering smooth key presses with minimal resistance. Without information on the feel of the Outemu Silent White switch, it's challenging to draw a direct comparison.
Overall, if you're looking for a linear switch with a clacky sound profile and a bouncy typing sensation, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent White switch might be worth considering. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch also depend on factors such as the keyboard layout, keycaps, and personal preference, so experimenting with different switches is always recommended to find the best fit for your typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force, a bouncy typing sensation, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and prioritize a silent typing experience, the Silent White might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force. Take into account your typing style and preferences to determine which switch will best suit your needs and enhance your overall typing experience.
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