PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer unique advantages. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, perfect for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. Its clacky sound profile and bouncy sensation from the extended 22mm spring make typing a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 boasts a sharp tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation, providing a satisfying typing feedback. While the U4 switches are whisper quiet, the Jacaranda exudes a more audible feedback. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gazzew U4 differ in several aspects. The Jacaranda features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing is softer and delivers a rich and deep sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4 also offers a rich and deep sound due to its softness.
While both the Jacaranda and the U4 have proprietary top housing materials that contribute to their unique sound profiles, the bottom housing materials highlight their differences. The Jacaranda's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4 also provides a rich and deep sound due to its softness. The impact of each housing material is felt differently when using the switches, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Gazzew U4 showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile of mechanical switches. While the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing emphasizes clarity and crispness, the Gazzew U4's proprietary blend top housing focuses on richness and depth. Additionally, the differences in their bottom housing materials further distinguish the two switches, with the Jacaranda's nylon offering a fuller sound and the U4's Gazzew blend providing a soft yet rich sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the desired sound profile and feel that each user prefers.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, which requires 45 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Jacaranda switch also requires less force at 45 grams, while the U4 switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. This means that the Jacaranda switch provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Although the difference between the two may seem minimal, it can impact the overall feel and response of the switch. The Jacaranda offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a favorable choice for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the U4 provides a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial depth when typing or gaming. Ultimately, both switches fall within a similar range of travel distance, so users can expect fairly comparable results in terms of keypress feel and actuation.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and audible feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a muted and low-pitched sound, ensuring a quieter typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Jacaranda would be ideal for those who enjoy a more crisp and percussive sound, while the U4 would suit individuals looking for a more subtle and mellow tone in their keyboard switches.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda offers a silky typing experience, characterized by its exceptionally smooth key presses that minimize resistance when typing. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 provides a sharp tactile bump, delivering a high feedback intensity that can be distinctly felt with each keypress. Those who appreciate a smooth and effortless typing experience may lean towards the Jacaranda, whereas those seeking a more tactile and pronounced feedback may find the U4 to be more satisfying.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it's evident that they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky sound and silky typing feel, offering a bouncy sensation with its extended spring, while the U4 stands out for its muted sound profile and sharp tactile feedback, complemented by a plush bottom-out sensation. Depending on whether you prioritize sound clarity or typing feedback intensity, you can make an informed decision between these two switches to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can elevate your mechanical keyboard setup to suit your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and fatigue-free typing experience with a bouncy sensation and a clacky sound profile, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, a plush bottom-out sensation, and a whisper quiet sound profile, then the Gazzew U4 tactile switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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