PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer unique typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Jacaranda, with its gentle 43.5g bottom-out and clacky sound signature, provides a fatigue-free typing experience with a bouncy sensation thanks to its extended 22mm spring. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers maximum tactility with a sharp tactility and clean clack, making each keystroke satisfyingly punchy. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a smooth and crisp typing experience, the POM T1 (Sunflower) stands out for its invigorating feel and pronounced tactility. 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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Jacaranda boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate of the Jacaranda is known for its clarity and resonance, while the POM of the Sunflower provides a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Jacaranda features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) also incorporates POM for its bottom housing, resulting in a similarly deep and muted sound profile. Despite the differences in material between nylon and POM, both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound profile of each switch in a similar manner, enhancing the typing experience with their unique qualities.
Overall, the choice between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference. While the Jacaranda offers a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Sunflower provides a deeper and more muted sound profile with its POM housings. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences, making them both viable options for those seeking a unique sound profile in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jacaranda switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Those who prefer a stronger push and a more significant typing experience may lean towards the POM T1 switch due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and preference of users, with the Jacaranda being lighter and the POM T1 being medium-heavy in comparison.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can impact the overall feel and feedback of the switches. The Jacaranda may feel more responsive due to its shorter travel distance, which can be beneficial for tasks that require quick keystrokes such as gaming. On the other hand, the POM T1 may provide a deeper and more satisfying keystroke for those who prefer a longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific application for which they will be used.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, delivering a sharp and crisp feedback with each press. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers a resonant and neutral sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience suitable for various typing preferences. Both switches cater to different sound preferences, with the Jacaranda leaning towards a more sharp and percussive sound, while the POM T1 offers a more versatile and moderate sound profile. Keep in mind that sound can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the contrary, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is known for its sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating tactile feedback. This means that the POM T1 provides a high feedback intensity with a distinct tactile bump, making each keypress feel responsive and lively. Both switches excel in providing a unique tactile experience, with the Jacaranda focusing on smoothness and ease of typing, while the POM T1 delivers a more pronounced and invigorating tactile response.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jacaranda excels in producing a clacky sound profile with a silky typing experience, catering to those who prefer a lighter touch and smooth operation. On the other hand, the POM T1 provides a resonant sound profile with sharp and invigorating tactile feedback, appealing to users who seek a more pronounced tactile sensation during typing. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience based on their individual sound and feel preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a smooth and gentle typing experience or a more tactile and responsive feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch or the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, you should take into account your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force, a bouncy typing sensation, and a clacky sound profile, then the Jacaranda switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if maximum tactility, a sharp tactile bump, and a resonant sound profile are what you desire, then the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch would be more fitting for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience you find most comfortable and enjoyable.
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