PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Smoothie both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda, a linear switch, is known for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers and ideal for fatigue-free typing. It produces a crisp and clacky sound with each press, thanks to its extended 22mm spring that adds a bouncy sensation to keystrokes. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie, also a linear switch, boasts an all-POM construction that delivers a thocky sound signature and remarkable smoothness. This switch is lightweight and offers a buttery touch. While both switches have their own strengths, such as the Jacaranda's unique bouncy sensation and the Smoothie's affordability without compromising on quality, it's important to delve deeper into their specific characteristics to determine which one best suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Smoothie are quite different, with the Jacaranda featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Smoothie has a POM top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Smoothie creates a deeper and more muted sound that is unique and pleasing to the user. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie also contributes to the deeper sound profile and muted sound of the switch.
While the Jacaranda and the Smoothie both offer unique sound profiles with their different housing materials, they serve different preferences for users. The Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, perfect for those who enjoy a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Meanwhile, the Smoothie's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, appealing to users who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, both switches share similarities in their use of POM for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper sound profile that is consistent between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the Jacaranda and the Smoothie ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Jacaranda offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, the Smoothie provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing. Additionally, both switches share a similar deep sound profile with their use of POM for the bottom housing. Whether you prefer a clear and resonant sound or a deeper and more muted sound, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, the Jacaranda has a slightly lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Smoothie's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jacaranda requires 45 grams while the Smoothie's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Jacaranda is on the lighter side, which can be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Smoothie may appeal to those who enjoy a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out force, catering to varying preferences in typing style and feel.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, as both are relatively close to each other. Generally, a shorter travel distance is favored for its faster actuation, while a longer travel distance can provide a more substantial, satisfying feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback and responsiveness.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 quality, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound that provides a crisp and bright auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, resulting in a deep and satisfying "thud" when pressed and released. Both switches provide unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Jacaranda leaning towards a sharper sound and the Smoothie offering a more bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to typing feel, the Jacaranda switch is renowned for its silky smoothness, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels seamless, effortless, and uniform. Both switches prioritize smoothness in typing, but the Jacaranda focuses on enhancing overall smoothness, while the Smoothie emphasizes a buttery sensation with each keystroke.
Overall, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch have distinct sound and feel characteristics, they both excel in providing a premium typing experience. The Jacaranda stands out for its clacky sound and silky feel, enhanced by the extended 22mm spring for a bouncy sensation. On the other hand, the Smoothie impresses with its thocky sound and buttery feel, offering remarkable smoothness and a lightweight touch. Ultimately, regardless of the differences in sound and feel, both switches guarantee a satisfying typing experience that caters to different preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a light actuation force, bouncy keystrokes, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound, smooth keystrokes, and a lightweight touch, the Smoothie could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so make sure to choose based on what suits your typing style and preferences best.
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