PH Studio Jacaranda vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the PH Studio Jacaranda and the TTC Venus mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, providing a fatigue-free typing experience with a clacky sound signature and a bouncy sensation thanks to its extended 22mm spring. On the other hand, the Venus boasts a seamless glide and a "Q-texture" that offers a matte sensation with smooth and engaging key presses. While the Jacaranda is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Resonant', the Venus is labeled as 'Buttery', 'Gummy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Muted', 'Neutral', 'Polished', 'Subdued', and 'Thocky'. Each switch has its own strengths and benefits, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you determine the best choice for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the TTC Venus, we see a notable difference in their top housing materials. The Jacaranda features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Venus opts for a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials have their unique characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda may be preferred for those seeking a brighter and more resonant sound, while the POM top housing of the Venus might appeal to individuals looking for a deeper and more subdued typing experience.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Jacaranda utilizes a nylon housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Venus features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which again creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The differences in bottom housing materials between the two switches highlight the impact that material choice can have on the overall sound and typing experience.
Interestingly, while the Jacaranda and Venus have contrasting housing materials for both the top and bottom, they both share the use of polycarbonate in one of their housing components. This suggests that despite their differences, users can expect some similarities in sound quality and performance due to the common use of polycarbonate. Whether you prefer the stiffer and clearer sound of the polycarbonate top housing of the Jacaranda or the softer and more resonant sound of the nylon bottom housing, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the TTC Venus linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Jacaranda requires 45 grams, while the Venus has a bottom out force of 52 grams, making it slightly heavier. The Jacaranda offers a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming, while the Venus provides a more substantial push feel, appealing to those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but the Venus may provide a slightly more tactile feedback due to its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, we can see that the Jacaranda has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Venus has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Venus has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jacaranda. A shorter travel distance, like the one on the Jacaranda, can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Venus switch with a longer travel distance may provide a more traditional and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer their own advantages, so the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
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 TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched auditory experience that is sharp and percussive, while the TTC Venus linear switch provides a more muted and low-pitched sound profile that is smooth and engaging. The Jacaranda's sound leans towards the crisp and bright side, ideal for those who enjoy a more audible feedback, whereas the Venus delivers a softer and quieter sound, perfect for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can choose based on their desired sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. On the other hand, the TTC Venus switch offers a buttery and frictionless typing sensation that is effortless and uniform. The Jacaranda's silky feel enhances the overall smoothness of typing, while the Venus' buttery texture ensures a seamless and fluid keystroke experience. Both switches excel in offering a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel, allowing users to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue or discomfort.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch offer unique and desirable qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky typing feel, the Venus impresses with its muted and low-pitched sound paired with a buttery and frictionless typing sensation. Whether a user prefers a more audible feedback or a quieter typing experience, both switches cater to different sound preferences. Similarly, their distinct tactile qualities ensure that users can enjoy a smooth and effortless typing experience regardless of their choice. Overall, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider your preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a light and bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, along with a silky smooth feel, then the Jacaranda might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a very light actuation force, a unique matte sensation with a muted sound profile, and various feel options such as buttery, gummy, or frictionless, then the Venus switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, it's important to weigh these factors against your personal typing style and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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