PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Type S are two standout linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and characteristics. The Jacaranda, with its gentle 43.5g bottom-out and bouncy 22mm spring, provides a fatigue-free typing experience with a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S, with its 65g bottom-out and neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, caters to those who prefer a weightier keystroke. While the Jacaranda offers a more tactile and audible typing experience, the Type S provides a more subdued and balanced sound. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Type S, it is evident that both switches feature nylon bottom housings. This means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the relatively softer nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder tone. While the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of each switch, the differences may lie in the top housings of the two switches.
The PH Studio Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. The use of polycarbonate is also ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucent nature allows light to shine through, enhancing the aesthetics of the keyboard. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S features a nylon top housing, which similarly absorbs sound like the nylon bottom housing but may elicit a different sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda. This contrast in top housing material could result in a slightly varied typing experience and auditory feedback for users.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gateron Type S allows for unique sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches feature nylon bottom housings for a deeper sound profile, the differences in their top housings contribute to distinct sounds when pressing and releasing keys. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller, richer tone of nylon, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their individual housing materials.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Type S linear switch. The Jacaranda requires only 39 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a light option for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. On the other hand, the Type S has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Those who opt for the Jacaranda will find it easier to type for longer periods of time, making it ideal for work or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Type S offers a more solid and substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier force. Regardless of the choice, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience based on the user's personal preference.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Jacaranda switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Type S switch. The shorter travel distance of the Jacaranda switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Type S switch may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation feel. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in choosing which switch would be the best fit for your typing or gaming needs.
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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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 satisfyingly clacky experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch provides a more neutral and subdued acoustic profile, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Jacaranda being more vibrant and lively, while the Type S is more mellow and understated.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, ensuring a seamless and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance. Unfortunately, there is no available information regarding the feel of the Type S switch. However, based on the characteristics of the Type S switch, it can be assumed that it offers a solid and tactile typing feel, complementing its weightier 65g bottom-out.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel. The Jacaranda switch stands out with its lively and clacky sound profile, paired with a silky smooth typing feel, while the Type S switch provides a more neutral sound profile and weightier keystroke. Ultimately, both switches have their unique features that cater to different preferences, ensuring that newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world can find a switch that suits their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter touch with a distinctive and bouncy typing sensation, along with a clacky sound profile that adds to the typing experience, then the Jacaranda switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a more neutral and balanced sound profile, the Gateron Type S switch may be better suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the tactile and auditory experience you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
