PH Studio Jacaranda vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 53g
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two compelling options are the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, both linear switches that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Jacaranda, produced by KTT, is celebrated for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, which ensures comfortable, fatigue-free typing. Its clacky sound signature and the distinct bouncy sensation provided by its extended 22mm spring make it an ideal choice for users who enjoy a tactile feedback while typing. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g offers a whisper-quiet experience, reminiscent of raindrops, making it perfect for those who prioritize a subdued auditory environment without sacrificing a satisfying keystroke. With a balanced 53g bottom-out force, this switch strikes an ideal compromise between lightness and responsiveness. While both switches have their unique attributes, they cater to different typing needs and experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits 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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g feature contrasting housing materials that significantly affect their sound profiles. The Jacaranda uses a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is primarily due to the rigidity of polycarbonate, allowing sound waves to resonate more cleanly and distinctly. In contrast, the Silent Sakura employs a nylon top housing that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. The soft nature of nylon lends to a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the bright clarity of polycarbonate. This fundamental difference indicates that users seeking a lively sound may prefer the Jacaranda, while those looking for a more muted typing experience might gravitate toward the Silent Sakura.
Examining the bottom housings reveals additional contrasts that further define the characteristics of these switches. The Jacaranda features a nylon bottom housing, which reinforces the deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall dampening effect typical of nylon. This cohesiveness ensures that the softer, rounder sounds resonate throughout the entire key press. Conversely, the Silent Sakura's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a sharper, more resonant sound, emphasizing clarity and precision. This combination of materials means that while the Jacaranda offers a more harmonious sound experience, the Silent Sakura delivers a pronounced auditory feedback that can be appealing to users who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience.
Despite the differences in materials, both switches can still yield comparable results in terms of user experience when considering their intended use. Each switch's top housing impacts the sound upon release, while the bottom housing shapes the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, tactile feel and acoustic experience will vary depending on the user’s preference for softness or brightness in their typing sound. By recognizing how the top and bottom housings interact, users can appreciate the nuanced typing experiences offered by the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, ultimately allowing them to find the switch that best suits their personal typing style.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, we can observe notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jacaranda features a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long hours at work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent Sakura switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, positioning it as a medium-light switch that provides a more substantial feel during use. This difference indicates that while both switches have a good balance of sensitivity and feedback, the Jacaranda is definitely the lighter option, which may appeal to those who prioritize comfort over longer typing periods. Conversely, the Silent Sakura offers a stronger push feel that could enhance the typing experience for users who prefer more resistance. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces are distinct, with the Jacaranda being lighter, allowing for a quicker response, whereas the Silent Sakura offers a firmer feel for users who enjoy a bit more weight in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch, we find a distinction in their specifications. The Jacaranda features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Silent Sakura - 53g has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is the longer choice. This difference suggests that users who favor quicker response times may benefit from the Jacaranda's shorter travel distance, as it may result in a more rapid actuation. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial feel with deeper travel might lean towards the Silent Sakura, as its longer distance could provide a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference regarding travel distance, with the Jacaranda delivering a snappier response and the Silent Sakura offering a traditional, deeper keystroke.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 53g comes in at $3.50 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 sound profile of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is distinctly characterized as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback that is both crisp and bright. This high-pitched sound is resonant, resulting in an engaging typing experience where each press is both clear and prominent. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g prioritizes a more subdued auditory experience, designed for those who prefer whisper-quiet keystrokes. The goal with the Silent Sakura is to minimize noise, making it ideal for environments where discretion is key, although its specific sound characteristics remain to be fully defined. Together, these switches demonstrate a stark contrast in sound, catering to different preferences—one for an expressive typing experience and the other for undisturbed productivity.
When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda switch excels with its silky touch, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This smoothness minimizes resistance during both key presses and releases, allowing for fluid typing with less finger fatigue. The combination of the gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g and the extended 22mm spring contributes to a uniquely bouncy sensation that enhances the overall experience. The Silent Sakura - 53g’s feel, while not explicitly defined here, is expected to maintain a balance with its recommended bottom-out force of 53g, which may lend a firmer touch compared to the Jacaranda, but there are not enough details to firmly conclude how it compares in terms of smoothness or other subjective qualities.
In summary, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is well-suited for typists who enjoy a clacky sound profile and a silky, smooth feeling with a bouncy response, making it ideal for those who type frequently without experiencing fatigue. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g offers a quieter typing experience, perfect for those who need to remain discreet. Both options cater to distinct typing preferences—whether one prioritizes sound and tactile feedback or seeks silence during their typing sessions. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch largely depends on your typing style and environment. If you prefer lighter switches that allow for rapid typing without much finger fatigue, the Jacaranda is an excellent option. With its gentle bottom-out force of 45 grams and distinct clacky sound profile, it provides a lively and engaging typing experience, making it well-suited for gamers or typists who enjoy an auditory feedback accompanying each keystroke. However, if you find yourself in quieter settings or workspaces where noise can be disruptive, the Silent Sakura - 53g switch is your ideal companion. With a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 53 grams, it supports a satisfying yet muted typing experience, delivering smooth keystrokes without the clatter. This makes it perfect for professionals, students, or anyone who prioritizes a tranquil workspace. Ultimately, your selection boils down to whether you seek joyful feedback and a bouncy feel or the serene quietude of whisper-soft keystrokes.
Mentioned in this article
