PH Studio Jacaranda vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda and KTT Sea Salt Lemon are two impressive linear mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. The Jacaranda, known for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, offers a fatigue-free typing experience with a clacky sound signature and a uniquely bouncy sensation thanks to its extended 22mm spring. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon boasts a buttery smooth typing experience with its progressive spring and dry-lube design. While the Jacaranda is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', 'Resonant', the Sea Salt Lemon is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild'. Both switches have their unique advantages and appeal, making them suitable choices depending on individual preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
No
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
Both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for being relatively stiff, contributing to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the qualities of the bottom housing differ between the two.
On the other hand, the Jacaranda and the Sea Salt Lemon both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Its softness allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite sharing this material for their bottom housing, the impact of nylon on the overall sound and feel of the switches may vary.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it's important to note that the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housings. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, even though the Jacaranda and Sea Salt Lemon may have similar top and bottom housing materials, the overall typing experience may differ based on the specific characteristics of each housing component.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Jacaranda requires 45 grams, while the Sea Salt Lemon demands 53 grams to fully press down. The Jacaranda provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it easier to type for extended periods, which is ideal for work or gaming. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon offers a slightly more substantial push feel, catering to those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer similar results despite their differences in actuation and bottom out force, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Lemon switch provides a deeper and more deliberate keystroke with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, with the Jacaranda being ideal for those seeking speed and responsiveness, while the Sea Salt Lemon appeals to users who prefer a more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a crisp and audible feedback with every press. The extended 22mm spring adds a bouncy sensation to each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, giving it a more mellow tone suitable for various settings. When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda offers a silky typing experience, ensuring minimal resistance and a smooth feel with every keystroke. In comparison, the Sea Salt Lemon provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. Overall, while the Jacaranda excels in producing a clacky sound and silky feel, the Sea Salt Lemon stands out with its low-pitched and mild attributes. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Jacaranda might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom-out force and a low-pitched, more neutral sound, the Sea Salt Lemon could be more to your liking. Additionally, if you value a silky typing experience, the Jacaranda would be the way to go, while if you prefer a mild typing feel, the Sea Salt Lemon may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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