PH Studio Jacaranda vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, one might find themselves torn between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Pine. The Jacaranda, a linear switch, is praised for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, making it a comfortable option for prolonged typing sessions. Its clacky sound signature and unique 22mm spring provide a bouncy sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Pine, also a linear switch, offers a medium-heavy feel with a buttery smoothness that enhances typing effortlessly. With a factory-lubed finish, it minimizes friction for a seamless key travel experience. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Pine, it is clear that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing is ideal for utilizing RGB lighting. On the other hand, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Jacaranda features a nylon bottom housing, known for its deeper and fuller sound profile as the softer plastic absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Pine utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing the sharp and clear sound profile associated with this material.
The use of different bottom housing materials in the Jacaranda and the Pine leads to variations in the typing experience. The Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound during typing, enhancing the overall feel of the switch. In contrast, the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, adding a different tactile experience for users. Despite these differences, both switches still maintain a quality sound profile thanks to the top polycarbonate housing, ensuring a consistent level of performance in terms of sound clarity.
Ultimately, the choice between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Pine will come down to personal preference in typing experience. While both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the differing bottom housing materials result in distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback. Whether one prefers the deeper sound of nylon in the Jacaranda or the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Pine, each switch offers a unique typing experience that caters to individual preferences. Regardless of the housing materials, both switches deliver quality sound and performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, it is clear that the Jacaranda is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. This difference means that the Jacaranda allows for a lighter typing experience overall compared to the Pine. For those who prefer a lighter touch and the ability to type for longer periods without fatigue, the Jacaranda may be the better option. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Pine may be the preferred choice due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the KTT Pine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine switch has a slightly longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Jacaranda switch has a shorter travel distance, which could be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for key press depth.
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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, giving each keystroke a sharp and crisp feedback that is both satisfying and noticeable. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch provides a bassy and low-pitched sound, offering a deeper and richer tone that may appeal to those who prefer a more mellow sound. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard, both switches can deliver an enjoyable auditory experience, with the Jacaranda for a more vibrant and percussive feel, and the Pine for a smoother and richer sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Jacaranda is known for its silky smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In comparison, the KTT Pine switch offers a buttery and creamy feel, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation that allows for uniform keystrokes. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use, with the Jacaranda focusing on a smoother experience and the Pine on a more fluid and consistent typing feel.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jacaranda excels in producing a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky smooth feel, the Pine stands out with a bassy and low-pitched sound and a buttery, creamy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing sensations, but rest assured that both switches can provide a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force and a bouncy typing sensation with a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. Its gentle actuation and unique spring design provide a fatigue-free typing experience. Alternatively, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a smooth, buttery feel with a bassy sound profile, the Pine switch could be more to your liking. Its factory-lubed finish ensures minimal friction for effortless key travel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for key feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force.
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