PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda, a linear switch, and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, a tactile switch, offer distinct experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out, clacky sound signature, and uniquely bouncy sensation from its extended 22mm spring. This switch is ideal for those looking for a fatigue-free typing experience with a crisp and audible feedback. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switches provide a medium tactility with a light touch and neutral sound, making them a balanced option for those seeking a comfortable typing experience. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both feature polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate in their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and performance in terms of sound clarity and resonance.
While both switches have polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Jacaranda features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches enhances the overall sound quality and typing experience, providing a more rounded and muffled sound compared to switches with stiffer bottom housings.
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, it is evident that both switches offer a high-quality sound experience with their choice of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials. While the top housing contributes to the sound profile when pressing a key, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Both switches prioritize sound clarity and resonance, with the nylon bottom housing providing a deeper and fuller sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. Overall, users can expect a premium typing experience with either switch, enjoying the benefits of both polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in terms of sound quality and performance.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda is lighter in both categories. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Violet Gold Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Jacaranda may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Violet Gold Pro may provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on the user's preferences, with the Jacaranda being the lighter option and the Violet Gold Pro potentially providing a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, we can see that the Jacaranda has a shorter distance of 3.5 mm while the Violet Gold Pro has a longer distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of responsiveness, the Jacaranda may be preferred by gamers for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial key press with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Jacaranda providing a quicker and more precise feel, while the Violet Gold Pro offers a more deliberate and satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend 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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing users with a sharp and crisp auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offers a more neutral sound, making it a versatile option suitable for a wide range of typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct sound profiles which can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda linear switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing the overall typing feel. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a stepped tactile sensation, offering a mild bump during key presses. While the Jacaranda focuses on smoothness, the Violet Gold Pro prioritizes a distinct tactile feedback, catering to different typing preferences based on the desired level of key feedback.
Taking all available information into consideration, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth typing feel, while the Violet Gold Pro delivers a more neutral sound and a stepped tactile sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback during typing, both switches offer distinct advantages that can elevate the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch or the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and bouncy linear switch with a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth feel, the Jacaranda would be a great choice for you. However, if you are looking for a medium tactility with a balanced typing experience and a neutral sound profile in a stepped switch design, then the Violet Gold Pro may be more suitable for your needs. Consider the typing experience you are seeking and choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences.
Mentioned in this article
