PH Studio Jacaranda vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the TKC Tangerine are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique qualities for discerning typists. The Jacaranda, known for its gentle bottom-out at 43.5g, provides a fatigue-free typing experience with a crisp and clacky sound signature. The extended 22mm spring in the Jacaranda offers a bouncy sensation that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine boasts an incredibly smooth feel attributed to its UHWMPE housings, setting it apart in the world of bespoke switches. While both switches share a high-pitched clack, the Tangerine is described as frictionless and buttery, in contrast to the silky and resonant qualities of the Jacaranda. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the TKC Tangerine both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Jacaranda features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for its top housing, providing a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. While both top housings offer distinct sound characteristics, they both cater to users looking for a clear and crisp typing experience, albeit in slightly different ways.
In terms of bottom housings, the Jacaranda utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material that offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Similarly, the Tangerine utilizes UHWMPE for its bottom housing, also known for its bright sound signature that provides resonant clacks when typing. Both bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience by providing a unique sound profile that complements the top housing material.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the TKC Tangerine contribute to their distinct sound profiles. While the Jacaranda offers a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings for a clear and full sound, the Tangerine provides a bright and resonant typing experience with its UHWMPE housings. Despite the variations in materials, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Jacaranda switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Tangerine switch, which does not provide information on its actuation force, making it unknown. The bottom out force of the Jacaranda switch is also lighter at 45 grams, while the Tangerine switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Jacaranda switch would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming, while the Tangerine switch would cater to those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would 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 TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Jacaranda makes it a popular choice among gamers looking for quick response times. On the other hand, the Tangerine with its longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, so choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style. Overall, while the Jacaranda offers a shorter travel distance, the Tangerine provides a slightly longer one for those looking for a more substantial keystroke.
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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 per 10 switches.
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 offers a clacky and resonant typing experience, with a distinctive sharp and crisp feedback. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch produces a high-pitched clack that adds a unique touch to each keystroke. While both switches have their own sound profiles, users can expect an audible and satisfying typing experience from either option.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance. In comparison, the Tangerine switch is known for its frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, offering an effortless and uniform typing sensation. Both switches excel in delivering a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, making them ideal choices for users looking for a comfortable and responsive keyboard switch.
Overall, whether you choose the PH Studio Jacaranda or the TKC Tangerine linear switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with distinct sound and feel characteristics. While the Jacaranda offers a bouncy sensation and a clacky sound, the Tangerine provides a smooth and frictionless feel with a high-pitched clack. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users will achieve similar satisfying results in their typing adventures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force and a uniquely bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, opt for the Jacaranda. It is especially ideal for those seeking a fatigue-free typing experience with a distinctive tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force with an incredibly smooth feel and high-pitched sound profile, the Tangerine is the way to go. It offers a frictionless and buttery typing experience that is sure to elevate your keyboarding sessions. Ultimately, your choice should align with your preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing satisfaction. Choose wisely to enhance your typing experience based on what suits you best.
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