PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, known for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out and clacky sound signature, offers a fatigue-free typing experience with a uniquely bouncy sensation thanks to its extended 22mm spring. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, with limited information available, remains a mysterious choice. While the Jacaranda promises a high-pitched and resonant typing experience, the Silent Yellow's characteristics are yet to be fully explored. If you're looking for a switch that provides a satisfying tactile feedback and a smooth typing experience, the Jacaranda might be the way to go. 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
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 Silent Yellow switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is useful for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the slight differences in design and construction may lead to variations in sound and feel between the two switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the PH Studio Jacaranda features a nylon bottom housing, while the Outemu Silent Yellow also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality. Despite both switches having similarities in their bottom housing material, slight differences in construction and design may impact the typing experience, with each switch potentially offering a unique feel and sound when pressed.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing. While both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches share similarities in their top and bottom housing materials, variations in construction and design can lead to differing typing experiences. Understanding how each housing material affects the sound profile and typing feel can help keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
Comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force, with 39 grams and 45 grams respectively. In contrast, the Silent Yellow switch is heavier, requiring 65 grams of actuation force and 80 grams to bottom out. The Jacaranda would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as for office work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent Yellow switch would be ideal for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel that requires a stronger push. Both switches offer differing levels of tactile feedback based on their actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options to suit their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Yellow. A shorter travel distance can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Silent Yellow being more on the average side and the Jacaranda offering a slightly shorter option. Depending on personal preference, either switch could provide a satisfying 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 Yellow 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 offers a distinctively clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp feedback with each key press. The extended 22mm spring further enhances the auditory experience by adding a bouncy sensation to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison on this aspect.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Jacaranda is known for its silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a seamless keystroke feel. This attribute contributes to a comfortable and fatigue-free typing session. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is not available, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison in this regard.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a clacky sound profile and a smooth typing feel, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch would be a great option to consider. However, if you are interested in a quieter typing experience with a focus on sound dampening, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch might be worth exploring further. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, consider the bottom out force and personal preferences. If you prefer a light keystroke with a bouncy sensation and clacky sound, the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier keystroke without any sound description preference, the Silent Yellow might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your typing style, sound preference, and overall typing experience you aim to achieve.
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