PH Studio Jacaranda vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Purple Click stand out as popular choices with their unique characteristics. The Jacaranda, a linear switch, is known for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, making it easy on the fingers for fatigue-free typing. Its clacky sound signature and extended 22mm spring provide a bouncy sensation with every keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click, a clicky switch, offers a satisfying high-pitched click with light keystrokes and a pronounced tactility. While both switches have their strengths, such as the Jacaranda's silky feel and the Purple Click's invigorating feedback, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Purple Click both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. The use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures that users can expect a consistent sound experience when typing.
However, the Jacaranda and the Purple Click diverge in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Jacaranda featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Purple Click utilizing polycarbonate for its bottom housing. Nylon, a classic switch housing material, offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The difference in bottom housing material between the two switches may impact the overall typing experience, as the qualities of each material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys.
In terms of construction, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom of a switch can significantly impact the typing experience. With the bottom housing material affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material impacting the sound when releasing a key. While both the Jacaranda and Purple Click utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in bottom housing material highlights how each switch may offer a unique typing experience. Users should consider their preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback when selecting between the two switches.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jacaranda requires 45 grams while the Purple Click needs 55 grams, making the Jacaranda the lighter option overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Jacaranda more comfortable for extended use, whether for work or gaming. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Purple Click provides a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches offer a different typing experience, so users should consider their preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out force when choosing between the two.
Travel distance
The comparison of travel distance between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch shows that the Jacaranda has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Purple Click has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Purple Click the longer of the two switches. The Jacaranda, with its shorter travel distance, may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Purple Click, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on personal preference, with the shorter distance of the Jacaranda offering quicker actuation and the longer distance of the Purple Click offering a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the specific use case.
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 Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 resonant typing experience, with a crisp and sharp feedback that is sure to delight users seeking an auditory treat while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click switch provides a crunchy and resonant sound profile, giving off a satisfying click with each keystroke. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, catering to different preferences in terms of keyboard acoustics.
In regard to feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, promising a smooth and comfortable typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Purple Click switch is noted for its invigorating tactile feedback, along with a moderate to firm actuation force for a snappy and reactive typing sensation. While the Jacaranda prioritizes a silky typing feel, the Purple Click switch focuses on providing an invigorating tactile experience for users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback while typing.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Purple Click switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences among users. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky and silky typing experience with a bouncy sensation from its extended 22mm spring, the Purple Click switch stands out with a satisfying click and invigorating tactile feedback. Both switches offer distinctive typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their preferred sound profile and typing feel. Ultimately, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch, tailored to meet their individual preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force and a smooth, fatigue-free typing experience with a bouncy sensation, the Jacaranda switch may be the best choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky sound profile and a silky typing feel, the Jacaranda switch could enhance your overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and a satisfying, high-pitched click sound, along with a more invigorating and responsive typing feel, the Purple Click switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, it's important to test out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your preferences and typing habits.
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