PH Studio Jacaranda vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often seek the perfect blend of performance, feel, and auditory feedback. The PH Studio Jacaranda and HMX Poro, both linear switches, offer distinct advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Jacaranda, manufactured by KTT, features a gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, ensuring a comfortable experience that minimizes finger fatigue. Its clacky and high-pitched sound signature adds an exciting auditory element to every keystroke, while the extended 22mm spring provides a bouncy sensation that elevates the typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Poro switches excel in their ultra-smooth action, enhanced by meticulous lubrication, which ensures an effortless glide. Their lighter actuation force results in a satisfyingly poppy sound profile that some users find particularly appealing. Ultimately, both switches cater to specific tastes—whether you're drawn to the Jacaranda's bouncy feedback and audible sound or the Poro's silky smoothness and pop, each has its unique strengths. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
45g
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Poro switches illustrate a fascinating contrast in their sound profiles influenced by the chosen plastics. The Jacaranda features a polycarbonate top housing that promotes a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This material's stiffer nature contributes to a clear and resonant audio experience, making it particularly well-suited for applications that incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucent quality. In contrast, the Poro's top housing is made of nylon, which is a time-honored choice for keyboard switches. Nylon’s softer properties lead to a deeper, fuller sound profile that absorbs noise rather than amplifying it. Thus, while the Jacaranda excels in clarity and brightness, the Poro offers a more subdued and rounded auditory experience.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes a depth and fullness to the sound profile. The characteristics of nylon become especially relevant when considering the bottom-out feel and sound during key presses, as both models exhibit that key trait. Since nylon is a softer plastic, it tends to absorb sound better than harder plastics, creating a consistent experience across both switches at their bases. Consequently, although the top housings of the Jacaranda and Poro diverge in material and sound signature, the bottoms create a cohesive auditory foundation that enhances the typing experience irrespective of the top housing material’s distinct contributions.
Ultimately, the combination of different top and bottom housing materials in the Jacaranda and Poro switches leads to a nuanced blend of auditory experiences. While the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing provides a bright and vivid auditory experience complemented by the full-bodied response from the nylon bottom, the Poro creates a more mellow sound profile throughout. In both instances, the nylon bottom housing plays a crucial role in shaping the overall acoustics, ensuring that even with contrasting top materials, users can enjoy a satisfying experience derived from the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon. Therefore, despite their differences, both the Jacaranda and the Poro can achieve pleasing auditory results, each with its unique interpretation of what a well-designed switch should sound like.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Jacaranda features a lighter actuation force of 39 grams, compared to the Poro's slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Jacaranda may be more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming due to less effort required to actuate a keystroke. Conversely, the Poro's actuation force provides a stronger push feel, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Jacaranda sits at 45 grams, while the Poro has a slightly higher bottom out force of 50 grams. Therefore, the Jacaranda can be considered lighter overall, making it ideal for users looking for a switch that eases prolonged use, while the Poro offers a heavier feel that may be preferred by those who like more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, we see a notable difference. The Jacaranda has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Poro's travel distance is slightly longer at 3.7 mm. This means that the Jacaranda offers a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive and suitable for gamers who prioritize rapid key presses. On the other hand, the Poro’s longer travel distance may appeal to users who prefer a deeper typing experience, providing a more substantial feel when actuating a key. Ultimately, if you're looking for quicker response times, the Jacaranda would be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke might gravitate toward the Poro.
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 HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro for $2.99.
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 distinctly clacky, high-pitched audio profile. It produces a sharp and snappy sound that is both crisp and resonant, making each keystroke a pleasing auditory experience. This sound signature not only enhances the typing experience but also adds an engaging element to the interaction with the keyboard. The clarity of the Jacaranda's sound will certainly appeal to those who prefer a more percussive keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Poro linear switch also presents a satisfyingly poppy and clacky sound profile. This suggests that while both switches have their unique sonic characteristics, users can expect enjoyable auditory feedback from both, though specific details about the Poro's sound qualities are not as defined.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda switch is noted for its silky and exceptionally smooth typing experience. This quality results in minimal resistance during key presses and releases, allowing for effortless typing that can significantly reduce finger fatigue. The switch’s gentle bottom-out strength of 43.5g complements this silky feel, making it an excellent choice for long typing sessions. In contrast, while the HMX Poro linear switch has been meticulously lubricated, specifics about its tactile feel are not provided. However, the emphasis on a smooth glide suggests that it aims to achieve a seamless typing experience, likely appealing to users who prioritize fluidity in their keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the PH Studio Jacaranda and HMX Poro linear switches have their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda excels in producing a clear, clacky sound and provides a silky feel, ensuring an enjoyable and fatigue-free typing experience. Meanwhile, the Poro also offers a clacky sound, though details on its tactile feedback remain unspecified. Ultimately, both switches promise satisfying results, and switching between them could yield similar auditory pleasures, though their unique qualities make each a distinct option worth exploring.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Poro linear switches ultimately depends on your preferences for both tactile feedback and sound profile. If you seek a switch that offers a very light and bouncy experience, along with a crisp, clacky sound that brings an engaging auditory feedback to your typing, the Jacaranda is your best bet. Its gentle bottom-out force makes it ideal for long typing sessions, minimizing finger fatigue while maintaining an enjoyable tactile sensation. On the other hand, if you prioritize an ultra-smooth keystroke coupled with a satisfyingly poppy sound, the HMX Poro is the way to go. This switch's meticulously lubricated mechanism ensures that every keystroke glides effortlessly, delivering a seamless typing experience. So, consider what feels and sounds best to you in your daily tasks—whether you prefer the lively feedback of the Jacaranda or the slick familiarity of the Poro—and select accordingly. Both switches offer unique advantages, and your choice will greatly enhance your typing experience.
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