PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Akko Rosewood
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Akko Rosewood switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Akko Rosewood each have unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Jacaranda, crafted by KTT, offers a gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort and ease during long typing sessions. Its clacky and high-pitched sound profile provides crisp, audible feedback that many users find satisfying. Moreover, the extended 22mm spring adds a bouncy sensation to each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood delivers a more subdued and deep thocky sound, thanks to a light layer of factory-applied lubricant, appealing to those who prefer a more muted auditory experience while typing. This switch typically offers a more stable feel, catering to users who enjoy a solid feedback without the higher-pitched distractions. Both switches come with their own sets of benefits, making them alluring in different contexts. 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
50g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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 PH Studio Jacaranda and Akko Rosewood exhibit notable differences in the materials used for their top housings, which play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile of each switch. The Jacaranda features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and capability to produce a sharper and crisper sound. This characteristic, combined with its translucency, makes polycarbonate ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. In contrast, the Rosewood utilizes a nylon top housing, which is softer and contributes to a rounder, more subdued sound profile. The inherent properties of nylon allow for better sound absorption, resulting in typing feedback that is less piercing compared to the polycarbonate option.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Jacaranda and Rosewood use nylon, which is considered a classic material for switch housing. This choice means that both switches will elicit a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and fullness. Nylon's softer plastic nature tends to absorb sound, giving both switches a deeper and more resonant bottom-out sound. This similarity is crucial when players consider the tactile feedback and auditory response, as the bottom housing plays a significant role in shaping the cumulative feel when keys are pressed down. Therefore, despite the disparity in the top housing materials, both switches uphold comparable characteristics in terms of their bottom sound profile.
In summary, the contrasting materials of the top housings in the Jacaranda and Rosewood create distinct sound profiles, while their uniformity in bottom housing material ensures a consistent and satisfying typing experience. Users who appreciate the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate will find that the Jacaranda excels in producing this effect, especially with RGB lighting integration. Conversely, those seeking a fuller and softer typing sound will likely prefer the Rosewood with its nylon top housing. Ultimately, the combination of materials in each switch leads to a unique blend of auditory responses, offering users the ability to select a typing experience that aligns with their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, both exhibit relatively low actuation and bottom out forces, but they do have slight differences worth noting. The Jacaranda features an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it just a touch lighter than the Rosewood, which has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means the Jacaranda is easier to press down, providing a lighter typing experience ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Conversely, the Rosewood, with its slightly heavier forces, offers a more substantial feel that some may prefer for tactile feedback. While both switches are light, the Rosewood is the heavier option, which might appeal to users who enjoy a firmer push feel when typing. Ultimately, if you're looking for something lighter and less taxing for extended use, the Jacaranda would be the preferable choice, whereas the Rosewood might suit those seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Jacaranda features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which positions it as a shorter switch, ideal for gamers seeking rapid response times and a more responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Rosewood has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, aligning with the more traditional travel specifications and offering a deeper feel that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, if you prioritize quick keypresses, the Jacaranda may be the better option, while the Rosewood is suitable for those who enjoy a more pronounced key travel.
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 Akko Rosewood has an MSRP of $3.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Rosewood for $3.11.
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 profile of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched qualities, which produce a crisp and resonant auditory feedback with each keystroke. Users can expect the sharp and bright sound to be immersive, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood linear switch delivers a deep and thocky sound, attributed to a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant that adds a satisfying depth to its tone. While both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, the Jacaranda provides a percussive, clacky feedback, while the Rosewood leans towards a more subdued yet rich sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda stands out with its silky smoothness, enabling a remarkably fluid typing experience. This smooth operation minimizes resistance during key presses and releases, allowing for effortless typing without fatigue. The Rosewood switches, however, do not have specific tactile descriptions available, which leaves their feel somewhat unknown. Nevertheless, both switches should deliver a pleasing typing experience, with the Jacaranda’s smoothness being particularly noteworthy.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches excel with their crisp, clacky sound and silky feel, making them perfect for those who appreciate a vibrant auditory feedback alongside a smooth typing experience. The Akko Rosewood linear switches, while offering a satisfying thocky sound, have less information available about their feel, leaving some uncertainty in that regard. Ultimately, while each switch has its unique sound character and feel, enthusiasts will find joy in either choice depending on their personal preference for auditory and tactile qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, your choice ultimately depends on your preferences for sound profile and typing sensation. If you favor a lighter touch and enjoy an auditory experience that is crisp and clacky, the Jacaranda switch is an excellent choice. Its gentle bottom-out force and impressive 22mm spring create a buoyant feel, making it particularly well-suited for fast typists or those who type for long periods without discomfort. On the other hand, if you appreciate a deeper and thocky sound with an equally satisfying response, the Rosewood switch should be your go-to. This switch excels in delivering a robust sound straight out of the box, thanks to its factory lubrication, which also enhances the typing experience. Ultimately, if you prioritize an engaging auditory experience with a softer touch, the Jacaranda is likely to be a better fit. Conversely, if you enjoy a solid, resonant feedback with a slightly firmer actuation, the Rosewood would serve you well. Consider how each switch aligns with your typing style and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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