PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear both offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda, a linear switch manufactured by KTT, is loved for its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers and ideal for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. Its clacky sound signature provides a satisfying auditory feedback with each press, while the extended 22mm spring adds a unique bounciness to each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear stands out for its innovative semi-silent design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound paired with a clacky bottom-out sound. The switch provides a silky smooth typing feel without feeling overly polished. While the Jacaranda is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Resonant', the Semi-Silent Linear is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers its own unique advantages and characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, while they share similarities in their top housing material, the bottom housing sets them apart. The Jacaranda features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear also includes a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar deep and full sound experience for typists.
Despite their differing bottom housing materials, the overall sound profiles of the Jacaranda and the Semi-Silent Linear may be influenced by the split qualities of their housings. The impact of the bottom housing can be felt when pressing down on the switch, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing exerts more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can have a significant impact on the user experience and sound output of mechanical switches. Whether a switch uses polycarbonate or nylon in its housing, the importance of each material's characteristics in shaping the overall typing experience cannot be understated.
In conclusion, while both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear share polycarbonate top housings that create sharp and clear sound profiles, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound for a rounder profile. The split qualities of the top and bottom housings emphasize the importance of each material in influencing the overall sound and feel of the switches. Whether using polycarbonate or nylon, the housing materials play a crucial role in enhancing the typing experience for users seeking specific sound profiles and tactile feedback in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, it is evident that there are differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Jacaranda switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. The actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear switch is not provided, but it is clear that it is heavier than that of the Jacaranda switch. Those who prefer a stronger keystroke may opt for the Semi-Silent Linear switch, while those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Jacaranda switch. Both switches have their merits depending on individual preferences, as weight plays a significant role in determining the typing experience one desires.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the PH Studio Jacaranda switch. The Jacaranda switch offers a shorter distance, which may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a deeper key press sensation. Ultimately, both switches provide a different tactile experience based on their respective travel distances.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, offering a sharp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch introduces a more subdued and neutral sound, dampening the noise while still maintaining a moderate and versatile sound profile. The choice between these switches will ultimately depend on your preference for a louder and crisper typing sound or a quieter and more subtle one, taking into consideration the other factors like your keyboard and keycap choices.
Moving on to the feel, the Jacaranda switch is characterized by a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild and snappy typing feel, providing a gentle yet responsive keystroke sensation that falls within a safe middle ground. Additionally, the Jwick switch also brings a buttery and polished quality to the typing experience, ensuring fluid key travel and reduced friction for a sleek and effortless typing session.
Considering the information provided, it's clear that the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky and high-pitched typing sound accompanied by a silky smooth feel, the Jwick switch focuses on a semi-silent and subdued sound profile with a mild and snappy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as how they complement your overall typing setup. If you enjoy a sharper sound and bouncy feel, the Jacaranda may be the way to go, whereas if you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Jwick switch could be the better option for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force of 45 grams, a bouncy typing experience with a 22mm spring, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, a semi-silent topping-out sound, and a silky smooth typing feel, the Semi-Silent Linear could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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