PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect linear keyboard switch, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Bsun Taichi both offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences. The Jacaranda, manufactured by KTT, distinguishes itself with a gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, allowing for a soft touch that minimizes finger fatigue during prolonged use. Its clacky and resonant sound signature provides a satisfying auditory feedback, while the extended 22mm spring lends a delightful bounce to each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi promotes a polished feel with its long-pole stem and extended springs, delivering exceptional smoothness and stability with a distinct high-pitched bottom-out sound. While the Taichi also leans towards a clacky sound profile, it prioritizes an ultra-smooth action that many typists find desirable. Both switches cater to users seeking comfort and performance, yet they deliver these qualities in notably different ways. 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
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and Bsun Taichi share a notable similarity in their top housing material, both utilizing polycarbonate. This common choice results in a sound profile that is sharp, high-pitched, and exceptionally crisp, thanks to the inherent properties of polycarbonate as a stiffer plastic. The translucency of the polycarbonate in both models not only supports superior sound quality but also enhances aesthetic appeal, particularly for users who plan to integrate RGB lighting into their setups. Therefore, regardless of the specific design or branding, the top housing material in both switches coordinates to deliver a similarly vibrant light show and enhanced acoustic experience.
When we examine the bottom housings of both the Jacaranda and Taichi, we again find a commonality: both switches feature nylon. This classic material is known for softening sound profiles, producing a deeper and fuller auditory experience compared to harder plastics. The nylon’s ability to absorb sound contributes to a more rounded and muted quality that contrasts with the sharpness of the polycarbonate top. This duality effectively balances the overall tactile experience; while both switches share qualitative characteristics due to their housing materials, the bottom housing’s nylon offers a softer bottom-out sound, enriching the overall typing feedback.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Jacaranda and Taichi ensures that users will experience a harmonious blend of sound qualities. The polycarbonate tops enhance tonal clarity and brightness during key releases, while the nylon bottoms deliver a fuller, more resonant sound when keys bottom out. This thoughtful design means that even when the two switches differ in branding, they nonetheless produce comparable auditory sensations owing to their shared materials. As a result, users can expect a consistent acoustic experience across both models, highlighting the effective interplay between sharper and rounder sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, we find that the Jacaranda has a slightly lighter actuation force at 39 grams compared to the Taichi's 40 grams. The Jacaranda's bottom out force is 45 grams, which provides a definitive endpoint when pressing a key, promoting a responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Taichi's bottom out force remains unknown, leaving some uncertainty about how it will feel when fully depressed. For those who favor a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming, the Jacaranda would be the preferable choice due to its lower actuation force and defined bottom out. Meanwhile, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Taichi might appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, yet without clarity on its bottom out force, it remains difficult to make a complete comparison. Overall, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Jacaranda stands out as the lighter option with a known bottom out force, ensuring a more predictable typing experience.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Bsun Taichi linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing the keys, the Jacaranda provides a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, making it potentially more suitable for gamers looking for quick actuation. In contrast, the Taichi's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a marginally deeper experience, which some users may prefer for a less abrupt sensation during key presses. Although the difference in travel distance is minimal, choosing the Jacaranda will yield a slightly snappier response, while the Taichi caters to those who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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, both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Bsun Taichi switches share a clacky nature, producing sharp and snappy auditory feedback with each keystroke. The Jacaranda's sound profile is particularly notable for its resonant quality, which results in a crisp, bright, and immersive auditory experience, while the Taichi also delivers a clear and percussive sound, albeit without the extended resonant characteristic. This means that both switches are likely to provide an engaging sound when typing, but the Jacaranda may offer a more unique auditory experience thanks to its resonant tuning.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda is characterized by a silky smoothness that enhances the overall typing experience, minimizing any resistance encountered upon key presses and releases. This creates a seamless and gratifying touch, perfect for long typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Taichi is described as polished, which suggests that it, too, boasts a refined and smooth feel, likely due to high-quality materials and possible factory lubing. While both switches are designed for a smooth typing experience, the Jacaranda's silky feel may be slightly softer in comparison, creating a different texture under the fingers.
Overall, both the PH Studio Jacaranda and Bsun Taichi linear switches offer appealing auditory and tactile characteristics, making them excellent choices for newcomers exploring the world of mechanical keyboards. The Jacaranda provides a clackier, more resonant sound profile and a silky feel, while the Taichi also delivers a satisfying clack with its polished smoothness. Ultimately, both will ensure pleasing experiences, though those seeking a more pronounced auditory nuance and a delicate touch may lean toward the Jacaranda, while those preferring refined smoothness might opt for the Taichi.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Bsun Taichi linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a lighter bottom-out force and a lively, bouncy feel that comes from the Jacaranda's extended spring, this switch will be especially comfortable for extended typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue while providing an engaging sensory experience. The clacky and resonant sound profile also adds a layer of auditory feedback that many users find enjoyable. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that emphasizes smoothness and stability, the Taichi linear switch might be the better choice. With its long-pole design and polished finish, you can expect a smooth, almost effortless keypress alongside the enchanting high-pitched sound that many find appealing. Ultimately, consider what aspects are most important to you—whether it's the delightful bounce and feedback of the Jacaranda or the refined smoothness and stability of the Taichi—to guide your decision in selecting the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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