PH Studio Jacaranda vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Swift are both linear switches that offer unique characteristics for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Jacaranda, with its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, provides a fatigue-free typing experience and a clacky sound signature that adds a satisfying feedback to each press. On the other hand, the Swift stands out for its deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, paired with a delicate 42g actuation force. While the Jacaranda features an extended 22mm spring for a bouncy sensation, the Swift's full nylon housings contribute to its unique sound profile. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
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
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Swift both feature nylon components, with the main point of distinction being the top housing material. The Jacaranda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This is ideal for those looking for a more clear and resonant typing experience, especially with the added benefit of RGB lighting compatibility. On the other hand, the Swift boasts a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This highlights the difference in sound quality and aesthetic preferences between the two switches.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Jacaranda and the Swift feature the classic nylon material. This choice enhances the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound that can provide a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a softer feel and deeper sound. While the bottom housing may not be as visually prominent as the top housing, it still plays a crucial role in impacting the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Swift ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the Swift's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches utilize nylon bottom housings, ensuring a consistent base for a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prioritize a clear and resonant sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch both have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Although the Swift requires slightly more force to bottom out, both switches fall on the lighter side of the spectrum. For individuals who enjoy a lighter typing feel to prevent fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming marathons, either switch would be a great choice. Ultimately, both the Jacaranda and Swift offer similar results due to their light actuation and bottom out forces, providing a smooth and comfortable typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9mm. The Jacaranda offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Swift. A shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers for faster response times, making the Jacaranda a potential choice for those seeking quick key presses. On the other hand, the Swift with its longer travel distance may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial key press that provides a sense of depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 it comes to sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive feedback with each press. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch offers a deeper sound profile due to its full nylon housings, giving it a smoother and more muffled tone. Both switches fall under the category of clacky, but the Jacaranda may lean towards a brighter and more defined sound, while the Swift offers a softer and more subdued auditory experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This indicates that users can expect minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Swift switch is noted for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Swift switch is described as feathery and bouncy, providing a light and elastic feedback sensation that further enhances the typing experience. The creamy feel described for the Jacaranda is not directly compared to any descriptors for the Swift, suggesting a potential difference in tactile feedback between the two switches.
In conclusion, while both the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Jacaranda stands out for its clacky sound signature and silky feel, imparting a crisp and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Swift excels in producing a deeper sound profile with its full nylon housings and offers an easy-to-press, feathery, and bouncy feel for a comfortable and responsive typing sensation. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, tailored to their individual preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prioritize a uniquely bouncy typing experience with a light bottom-out force of 43.5g and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother typing feel with a lower actuation force of 42g and a deeper sound profile, the Swift switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. Choose wisely based on what aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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