PH Studio Jacaranda vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboards, two switches stand out for their unique features and characteristics: the PH Studio Jacaranda, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch. The Jacaranda, known for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, offers a smooth typing experience that is easy on the fingers and minimizes fatigue. With a clacky sound signature and an extended 22mm spring, each keystroke on the Jacaranda provides a bouncy sensation that elevates the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple boasts a noticeable tactile bump that delivers an exhilarating typing experience, accompanied by a snappy sound profile. While the Jacaranda is characterized by clacky, high-pitched, silky, and resonant qualities, the Polaris Purple is described as having neutral, mild, and polished characteristics. Both switches offer unique benefits and drawbacks, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide which switch is best 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
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both feature polycarbonate for the top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting effects. However, the Jacaranda switches have a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound overall.
While both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference in bottom housing material leads to variations in sound and feel. The Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper typing sound compared to the Polaris Purple's sharper and crisper sound from its polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a unique combination of qualities in each switch, catering to different preferences for typing experience.
In terms of overall performance and aesthetics, the use of different housing materials in the PH Studio Jacaranda and the SP-Star Polaris Purple offers a distinct typing experience. The Jacaranda with its combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing provides a balance between sharpness and depth in sound, appealing to those who prefer a fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple showcases the consistent use of polycarbonate throughout, emphasizing a sharp and clear sound profile for a more precise typing feel. Both switches demonstrate how housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of mechanical keyboards, catering to a range of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Jacaranda is also lighter at 45 grams, while the Polaris Purple has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Jacaranda switch is overall lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different benefits depending on individual preferences, with the Jacaranda being ideal for longer typing sessions and the Polaris Purple for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Polaris Purple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jacaranda. The Jacaranda's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Polaris Purple may be more suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced key press with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two would depend on the individual's preference for key feel 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 SP-Star Polaris Purple 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 Purple 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
When it comes to sound, the Jacaranda linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, creating a crisp and percussive auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preference, with the Jacaranda offering a sharper sound while the Polaris Purple maintains a more moderate tone.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda switch provides a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance during key presses and releases. This smoothness adds to the overall typing comfort and can contribute to a more effortless typing session. The Polaris Purple tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a mild and polished feel, creating a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort in their tactile feedback, catering to users who value a refined typing feel.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jacaranda stands out with its clacky sound and silky feel, while the Polaris Purple provides a neutral sound and a polished, mild feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between these switches to customize their mechanical keyboard to suit their needs. Whether opting for the bouncy sensation of the Jacaranda or the exhilarating tactile bump of the Polaris Purple, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience that can elevate your overall productivity and enjoyment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a light bottom-out force, a bouncy sensation, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force, a big tactile bump, and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple could be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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