PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Everglide Rice Pudding
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Everglide Rice Pudding switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options, such as the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Everglide Rice Pudding. The Jacaranda, a linear switch crafted by KTT, is celebrated for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force that provides a fatigue-free typing experience. Its clacky and high-pitched sound signature offers a crisp feedback, further enhanced by an extended 22mm spring that lends a uniquely bouncy feel to every keystroke. In contrast, the Everglide Rice Pudding switches stand out with their hallmark smoothness and satisfying deep sound, creating a balanced typing experience that is both precise and enjoyable. Additionally, their compatibility with Wooting's innovative keyboards makes them ideal for those seeking versatility alongside performance. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences—whether you prioritize acoustics and a bouncy feel or a smooth, deeper sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Custom stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Everglide Rice Pudding utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a similar auditory quality characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when the keys are pressed, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate an articulate typing experience. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of these switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting, allowing users to enjoy visually vibrant effects paired with precise acoustics.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, which imparts a significantly different sound profile. The nylon's softer composition absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller response during typing. This distinction is essential as it contributes to the overall auditory experience; while the tops generate brightness and clarity, the bottoms enrich the sound with warmth and depth. As a result, the interplay between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom combines to create a well-rounded sound character, appealing to users who value both clarity and depth in their typing experience.
When considering the totality of the Jacaranda and Rice Pudding switches, despite their different bottom housings, the shared use of polycarbonate for the top ensures that both models yield a similarly bright and crisp initial contact sound. However, the nylon bottoms enhance the overall acoustic experience, resulting in a unique blend of sound qualities that elevates the typewriting experience. Users can expect a cohesive sound profile that harmonizes sharpness with warmth, allowing both switches to deliver pleasant auditory feedback across a spectrum of styles and preferences.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch, we observe some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jacaranda features an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Rice Pudding has a slightly lighter actuation force of 38 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that while both switches fall into the light category, the Jacaranda is marginally heavier when it comes to actuation, but the Rice Pudding requires more force to bottom out. Users who prefer a lighter typing experience and longer sessions may favor either switch, but the Rice Pudding does offer a more substantial bottoming out feel. Overall, those looking for a lighter switch might opt for the Rice Pudding for its lower actuation force, while those desiring a noticeably heavier feel at the bottom may find the Jacaranda more to their liking.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Everglide Rice Pudding hall effect switch is identical at 3.5 mm. This means that users will experience a similar feel when pressing down on the keys of either switch, as both require the same amount of distance to be activated. Consequently, for those seeking uniformity in key actuation and tactile feedback, either option would deliver similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Everglide Rice Pudding has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rice Pudding for $6.79.
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
The sound signature of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is characterized by its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant qualities. This means that when you press a Jacaranda switch, you can expect a crisp and bright auditory feedback that is both sharp and percussive, creating an immersive typing experience. This appealing sound can enhance the overall enjoyment of typing, especially for users who appreciate a more vibrant auditory feedback. In contrast, the Everglide Rice Pudding switch lacks a detailed sound profile in the information provided, leaving its acoustic character somewhat unknown. However, it is noted to offer a "deep sound," suggesting a potentially richer, bassier auditory experience that complements its smooth operational feel.
When examining feel, the Jacaranda switch excels with its silky smoothness that minimizes resistance during each key press, contributing to a delightful typing experience. The gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g combined with the unique bouncy sensation from its extended 22mm spring allows for easy key activation without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Everglide Rice Pudding switches. Without further details on their characteristics, it’s difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Everglide Rice Pudding switches present unique qualities that cater to different user preferences. The Jacaranda boasts a distinctively clacky sound and a silky feel, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback and a smooth typing experience. Conversely, the Rice Pudding promises a satisfying balance of smooth operation and deep sound, although specific details about its feel remain unspecified. Ultimately, users might gravitate toward the Jacaranda for its engaging acoustic and tactile qualities, while the robust Rice Pudding could appeal to enthusiasts seeking versatility and performance in their typing setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Everglide Rice Pudding switches ultimately boils down to your personal preferences in feel and sound. If you prioritize a light actuation and enjoy a lively typing experience, the Jacaranda is an excellent choice. Its unique 22mm spring provides a bouncy sensation that, combined with its clacky and high-pitched audio feedback, creates a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for those who appreciate a more expressive typing sound. This makes it particularly suitable for a lively office or a home setup where auditory feedback enhances your engagement while typing. Conversely, if you seek a smooth and balanced typing experience with a slightly heavier force, the Rice Pudding stands out as a compelling option. With a focus on providing a satisfying yet precise keystroke, this switch is ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate versatility and performance, especially if you plan to use it with Wooting's keyboards. The deeper sound profile and overall smoothness make it appealing for those who desire a more grounded auditory experience without sacrificing tactile enjoyment. Therefore, consider what matters most to you—whether it's the vibrant sound and bouncy feel of the Jacaranda or the balanced and smooth operation of the Rice Pudding—to make an informed decision that aligns with your typing style.
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