PH Studio Jacaranda vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switches stand out as top contenders. The Jacaranda, known for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force and clacky sound profile, offers a fatigue-free typing experience with its uniquely bouncy 22mm spring. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches provide a clean and clacky sound for those who prefer a bouncy typing feel. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a high-pitched and resonant experience, the Polaris Gray offers a more neutral and polished typing 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, the Jacaranda features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than stiffer plastics like polycarbonate. In contrast, the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with its top housing to create a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout the switch's operation.
Despite both switches sharing a polycarbonate top housing, the difference in their bottom housing materials results in a notable contrast in sound profiles. The Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing contributes to a duller and rounder sound, which can provide a unique typing experience compared to the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing. While both materials have their own acoustic qualities, the split between top and bottom housing influences the overall typing feel and sound output of each switch. The impact of the bottom housing material can be felt when pressing down a key, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboard switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of each keystroke. While both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the SP-Star Polaris Gray utilize polycarbonate in their top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, the difference in their bottom housing materials results in distinct typing experiences. The Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains consistency with its top housing for a crisper sound profile. Understanding the impact of top and bottom housing materials can help users tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is clear that the Jacaranda is lighter overall. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams, which is lower than the Polaris Gray's unknown actuation force, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Jacaranda is 45 grams, while the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating that the Jacaranda is lighter in terms of the force required for a full key press. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience might opt for the Jacaranda, as it allows for longer typing sessions without as much finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Polaris Gray has a longer travel distance compared to the Jacaranda. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the Jacaranda falls on the shorter side of the spectrum, making it ideal for users looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Polaris Gray provides a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and 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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing users with a sharp and percussive auditory experience. The extended 22mm spring in the Jacaranda contributes to a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, further enhancing the sound feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a clean and clacky sound, characterized by its low-pitched and neutral qualities, providing a more mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, if you enjoy a sharper and more resonant sound, the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a smoother and more approachable sound profile, the Polaris Gray could be the better option.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Jacaranda is known for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance and enhancing overall smoothness during use. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch is described as mild and polished, providing users with a gentle typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel. The polished finish of the Polaris Gray contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. Ultimately, if you prioritize a silky smooth feel, the Jacaranda may be the preferred choice. However, if you prefer a more gentle and polished typing experience, the Polaris Gray could be more suitable for your preferences.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky and bouncy sound profile, along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray boasts a clean and clacky sound, paired with a mild and polished typing feel. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with minimal resistance or a more mellow tone with a refined feel, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch or the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, remember that the Jacaranda is ideal for those who prefer a light bottom-out force, a bouncy typing experience, and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is great for individuals who prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a clean and clacky sound profile, and a mild and polished typing feel. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and overall feel. Choose wisely based on what factors matter most to you in your mechanical keyboard switch selection process.
Mentioned in this article
