PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, one may come across the PH Studio Jacaranda, a linear switch, and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, a tactile switch. The Jacaranda, known for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force and clacky sound profile, offers a fatigue-free typing experience with a uniquely bouncy sensation due to its extended 22mm spring. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura stands out with its snappy response and buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance between pronounced tactility and a mild, neutral sound signature. While the Jacaranda is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Resonant', the Purple Sakura is labeled 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Snappy'. Each switch has its own set of advantages, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you decide on the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate's translucency makes it especially useful for switches intended for RGB lighting. However, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Jacaranda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar effect in terms of sound profile.
Comparing the two keyboards, the differences between the Jacaranda and Purple Sakura mainly lie in their bottom housing materials. While both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings that result in a similar sharper and crisper sound profile, the nylon bottom housing of each keyboard provides a distinct typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing offers a similar effect by absorbing more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing.
In summary, the PH Studio Jacaranda and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharp and resonant sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting. The key difference between the two keyboards lies in their bottom housing materials. The Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing provides a similar effect by absorbing more sound, giving a duller and rounder sound experience. Overall, both keyboards offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it's clear that the Jacaranda is the lighter option. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Purple Sakura has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium resistance that may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer distinct advantages - the Jacaranda allows for longer typing sessions with its lighter force, while the Purple Sakura provides a stronger push feel for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Jacaranda has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feel when typing, while the Purple Sakura offers a slightly shorter travel distance for those who prefer a quicker and more responsive keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively compact travel distance compared to traditional switches, but the slight difference between the two may cater to different preferences in 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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, offering a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each press. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch provides a more neutral sound, making it suitable for various environments without being overwhelming. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, so the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda switch is known for its silky typing experience, offering exceptionally smooth key presses that minimize resistance. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery and mild, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is approachable to most users. The snappy response of the Purple Sakura switch also adds a touch of liveliness to the typing experience. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, with the Jacaranda focusing on smoothness and the Purple Sakura emphasizing a balanced tactile response.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jacaranda provides a clacky sound and silky feel, the Purple Sakura offers a more neutral sound profile with a buttery and mild tactile experience. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Regardless of the choice, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience and provide users with a satisfying feel and sound while typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force, a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a moderate bottom-out force, a buttery downstroke, and a tactile switch with a snappy response, the Purple Sakura tactile switch might be more suited to your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for a more enjoyable typing experience.
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