PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and Dareu Snow linear switches both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda, known for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force and clacky sound signature, provides a fatigue-free typing experience with a satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Snow switch sets itself apart with its innovative POK material construction, resulting in a deeper sound profile and a bouncy feel. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a silky and resonant typing experience, the Snow switch offers a thocky and neutral feel that some users may prefer. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
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 Dareu Snow both feature top housings made of different materials, with the Jacaranda utilizing polycarbonate and the Snow using POK material. While both materials offer durability and a distinct sound profile, they differ in their coefficients of friction and shock resistance. Polycarbonate in the Jacaranda creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, POK material in the Snow contributes to smooth and clacky switches while offering exceptional strength and wear resistance. Despite these differences, both materials ultimately aim to enhance the overall typing experience for users.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Jacaranda and the Snow feature nylon material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics due to its ability to absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience for users. With both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housings, users can expect a similar sound and feel when typing on either the Jacaranda or Snow. This commonality provides consistency in the typing experience and ensures that users can enjoy a rich sound profile regardless of the switch they choose.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience for users. While the Jacaranda and Snow feature different materials for their top housings, they both provide unique characteristics that enhance the overall sound profile of the switches. Additionally, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housings ensures a consistent and satisfying typing experience for users of both switches. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Jacaranda or the smoothness of POK material in the Snow, both switches offer high-quality materials that contribute to an improved typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two. The Jacaranda has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Snow has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for users who enjoy a stronger push. Those looking for a switch that requires less force to type may gravitate towards the Jacaranda, while individuals seeking a switch with a heavier touch may find the Snow more appealing. In either case, understanding the actuation and bottom out forces of a switch is crucial in determining the typing experience it offers.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Jacaranda has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Snow. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quick response times. However, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may prefer the Jacaranda for its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for key feel 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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and sharp auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, resulting in a deep and rich tone when typing. These differences in sound create unique typing experiences for users, with the Jacaranda being more sharp and percussive, while the Snow offers a more bass-heavy and mellow sound. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch is known for its bouncy feel, providing users with a spring-like feedback sensation and a lively key press experience. These tactile differences can greatly impact the overall typing feel for users, with the Jacaranda offering a smoother touch and the Snow delivering a more dynamic and rebounding sensation.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jacaranda excels in producing a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, coupled with a silky smooth typing experience, while the Snow provides a thocky and low-pitched sound with a bouncy feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. If a user enjoys a clacky sound and silky feel, they will find satisfaction with the Jacaranda, while those who prefer a thocky sound and bouncy touch will likely prefer the Snow switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prioritize a lighter touch with a bouncy typing sensation and a clacky sound, the Jacaranda switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a deep thocky sound and a bouncy feel, the Snow switch could be the perfect fit for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and priorities. Consider these factors carefully to ensure you pick the switch that will enhance your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
