PH Studio Jacaranda vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, known for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g and clacky sound signature, offers a fatigue-free typing experience with its uniquely bouncy sensation thanks to its extended 22mm spring. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch features a light actuation force of 37g and a 50g tactile force, providing effortless typing and a satisfying tactile bump with each keystroke. While the Jacaranda offers a crisp and audible feedback, the Phalaenopsis ensures a delightful typing experience with its bassy and thocky characteristics. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, but diving in deeper beyond these generalities will help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Phalaenopsis both use polycarbonate as the material for their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housings is beneficial for switches that aim to provide clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material used by each switch. The Jacaranda utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile compared to nylon.
While the top housings of both the Jacaranda and the Phalaenopsis are made of polycarbonate, providing similar sound characteristics, the bottom housings differ in material and, therefore, in sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda offers a more muted and rounder sound when compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis. This difference in bottom housing material highlights how the material choice can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch. If a more robust and fuller sound profile is preferred, the Jacaranda with its nylon bottom housing may be the better option, while the Phalaenopsis with its polycarbonate bottom housing might appeal to those seeking a sharper and clearer sound.
In terms of tactile experience, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. This means that the choice of material for the top and bottom housings can greatly impact the overall typing experience. The Jacaranda's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing provides a unique sound profile that is deeper and fuller, emphasizing the typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis's dual use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings results in a crisper and clearer sound, catering to a different typing preference. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for the switches contribute to their individual characteristics and appeal to different users based on their sound and tactile preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch reveals some differences. The Jacaranda has a slightly higher actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis's 37 grams, making it slightly lighter. However, the bottom out force of the Jacaranda is 45 grams, while the Phalaenopsis has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it heavier. Both switches provide a relatively light actuation force, which is ideal for those looking for a smoother typing experience. However, the Phalaenopsis offers a slightly heavier bottom out force for users who prefer a more substantial and tactile feel while typing. In general, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Jacaranda, while those who enjoy a stronger push might opt for the Phalaenopsis.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is clear that the Jacaranda has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Phalaenopsis has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda's shorter travel distance may cater more to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers, while the Phalaenopsis may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight difference may be noticeable to discerning users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 clacky and high-pitched sound with a resonant quality, creating a sharp and percussive feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch delivers a bassy and thocky sound, offering a deeper and richer tone during typing. The choice between the two switches ultimately boils down to individual preference as to whether one prefers the brighter and crisper sound of the Jacaranda or the deeper and more satisfying sound of the Phalaenopsis.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch provides a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch offers a stepped feel, providing a tactile bump with two stages during the keystroke. This differentiation in feel caters to different typing styles and preferences, with the Jacaranda focusing on smoothness and the Phalaenopsis offering a more defined tactile sensation.
Overall, both the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Jacaranda excels in producing a sharp and clacky sound with a bouncy typing sensation, the Phalaenopsis provides a deeper and more satisfying sound with a distinctive tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in typing experience. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force, along with a crisp and clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force with a satisfying tactile bump and a deeper, bassy sound profile, the Phalaenopsis tactile switch may be more suited to your typing style. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and typing force when making your decision between these two unique switches. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience tailored to different preferences.
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