PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, providing a fatigue-free typing experience while delivering a crisp and clacky sound feedback. The extended 22mm spring in the Jacaranda adds a bouncy sensation to each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze switch boasts a different typing experience with its clicky mechanism, perfect for those who prefer 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
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
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 PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Spring Breeze both feature a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience for users of both switches. However, the Jacaranda stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound overall, making it a preferred choice for those looking for a more distinct sound.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, they differ in their top housing material. The Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing offers the added benefit of translucency, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a different typing experience compared to the Jacaranda. The choice between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference and the desired sound profile for the user.
In terms of sound and feel, the bottom housing of a switch has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when a key is released. Both the Jacaranda and the Spring Breeze showcase the importance of housing materials in achieving different sound profiles and typing experiences. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Jacaranda or the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon top housing in the Spring Breeze, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch's slightly heavier 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jacaranda requires 45 grams to fully press down, while the Spring Breeze needs 55 grams, making it a bit heavier. Users who prefer a lighter feel may gravitate towards the Jacaranda for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the slightly heavier Spring Breeze. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which some gamers may prefer for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze clicky switch provides a deeper key press feel with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, so choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Spring Breeze 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 it comes to sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched feedback that resonates with each press, giving a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard, keycaps, and other factors.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda switch provides a silky smooth typing experience, ensuring minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Unfortunately, the tactile feel of the Outemu Spring Breeze switch is not provided. If the Jacaranda offers a smooth typing feel, then it can be expected that the Spring Breeze might offer a similar experience.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and silky smooth feel, enhanced by its unique 22mm spring that adds a bouncy sensation to each keystroke. While the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch remain unknown, if seeking a combination of crisp sound and smooth typing, the Jacaranda may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the best switch for an individual will depend on personal preference and the overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and a gentle typing experience with a bouncy sensation, then the Jacaranda switch is the way to go. It is ideal for those who prefer a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth typing feel. On the other hand, if you seek a medium-light bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a more traditional clicky sound, the Spring Breeze clicky switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice should align with your typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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