PH Studio Jacaranda vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch both offer unique features that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Jacaranda is best suited for those who enjoy a tactile and clacky typing experience, with its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force and extended 22mm spring providing a bouncy sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch is perfect for individuals who prioritize a quiet environment, as it is virtually silent during operation due to its advanced dampening technology. While the Jacaranda leans towards a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, the Semi Mute offers a buttery and muted typing experience. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Semi Mute both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, creating a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through the housing. However, the Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality.
On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing emphasizes sharpness, high-pitched tones, and crispness in sound. This material is stiffer and clearer, producing a more resonant sound profile compared to the Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing. While the top housing of a switch impacts the sound when a key is released, the qualities of the bottom housing are felt more prominently when typing on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Both switches offer a balance of different sound qualities based on their housing materials, providing users with varied typing experiences.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature translucent housings due to their polycarbonate top housing, making them suitable for RGB lighting setups. The use of clear housing material enhances the visual appeal of the switches, allowing for customizable lighting effects. Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the KTT Semi Mute offer a unique typing experience with distinct sound profiles, showcasing the impact that housing materials can have on keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, we can see noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jacaranda switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Semi Mute switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a firmer typing experience. The Jacaranda switch is lighter overall, while the Semi Mute switch is heavier. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Jacaranda switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the Semi Mute switch to be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Jacaranda has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Semi Mute has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda, with its shorter travel distance, may be preferred by those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Semi Mute, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired 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 KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and sharp auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is characterized by its muted and neutral sound, offering a quieter typing environment with a moderate sound profile. While the Jacaranda excels in producing an immersive and resonant sound, the Semi Mute prioritizes a noise-free experience suitable for late-night typing sessions. When considering sound preference, users can choose between the clacky vibrancy of the Jacaranda or the quiet efficiency of the Semi Mute for a tailored auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is celebrated for its silky smooth typing experience, enhancing comfort and minimizing resistance during keystrokes. Contrastingly, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is praised for its buttery and mild typing sensation, offering a fluid and gentle keystroke experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Whether you prefer a silky smooth typing feel with the Jacaranda or a buttery and mild sensation with the Semi Mute, both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jacaranda excels in producing a clacky and resonant sound, coupled with a silky smooth typing feel for an immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute provides a muted and neutral sound profile alongside a buttery and mild typing sensation for a quiet and comfortable typing environment. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider your priorities in typing experience. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force, a bouncy sensation with extended spring, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda switch would be your best choice. On the other hand, if you value a medium bottom-out force, a noise-free environment with a muted sound profile, and a smooth typing sensation with advanced dampening technology, then the Semi Mute switch would be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound characteristics.
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