PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice can be overwhelming with the variety available in the market. Two popular options to consider are the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), both linear switches. The Jacaranda offers a gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it comfortable for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue. Its clacky sound signature and unique extended 22mm spring provide a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) boasts resonant and clacky notes, coupled with a smooth factory lube job for a silky typing experience. While both switches share similarities in sound and feel, they also have distinct characteristics that set them apart. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
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
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both feature different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Jacaranda using polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) uses POM for the top and nylon for the bottom. The polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience, while the POM top housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) may not provide the same level of transparency for RGB lighting but offers a unique sound profile that some users may prefer for a more subdued typing experience. Despite the differences in sound profiles created by the top housing materials, both switches share the advantage of using nylon for the bottom housing, ensuring a consistent level of depth and fullness in sound during typing.
Overall, the choice between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics. The Jacaranda offers a sharper and crisper sound profile with the polycarbonate top housing, perfect for those who prefer a more resonant typing experience with the added bonus of RGB lighting capabilities. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a unique and deeper sound profile with its POM top housing, catering to users who prefer a more muted typing sound. Both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent level of depth and fullness in sound regardless of the differences in top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it's evident that both switches fall within the lighter weight category. The Jacaranda has a slightly lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2) with 45 grams. Similarly, the Jacaranda also has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2) with 50 grams. Both switches offer a light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Those who prefer a heavier typing feel may find the Jacaranda to be lighter compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 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 may not be significant to most users, as both switches offer a similar experience in terms of key feel and actuation. Ultimately, whether you choose the Jacaranda or the Strawberry Wine (V2) will depend on personal preference for the subtle differences in travel distance.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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
When comparing the sound qualities of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, both are described as clacky and resonant, providing a sharp, crisp, and immersive auditory experience. The Jacaranda's sound leans towards the clacky side, with a distinctive high-pitched and resonant profile, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) also showcases a clacky and resonant sound signature. Whether you opt for the Jacaranda or the Strawberry Wine (V2), you can expect a similar experience in terms of sound, with both switches offering a satisfying auditory feedback.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Jacaranda and the Strawberry Wine (V2) are described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The silky feel of these switches enhances the overall typing feel, ensuring a comfortable and seamless typing experience for users. With the similar description of a silky feel for both switches, users can expect a consistent smoothness and responsiveness when typing on either the Jacaranda or the Strawberry Wine (V2).
In conclusion, both the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offer impressive sound qualities with a clacky and resonant profile, as well as a silky smooth feel that enhances the typing experience. Whether you prioritize sound, feel, or overall typing experience, you can expect similar results from both switches in terms of sound feedback and typing comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the Jacaranda and the Strawberry Wine (V2) will come down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a lighter bottom-out force and a uniquely bouncy typing sensation with a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom-out force, impeccable factory lube job for a silky smooth typing experience, and resonant, clacky notes, then the Strawberry Wine (V2) could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. Choose the switch that best complements your typing style and enhances your overall typing experience.
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