PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Jade are both linear mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Jacaranda, with its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, provides a fatigue-free typing experience and produces a crisp and clacky sound feedback with every press. Its extended 22mm spring gives each keystroke a uniquely bouncy sensation, elevating the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Jade features a metallic insert in the stem base for a bright metallic sound profile and a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display. The typing experience with the WS Jade is described as uniquely creamy and smooth with a rock-solid bottom-out. Both switches offer different sound profiles and typing experiences, making them ideal choices for specific preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the POM top housing of the Wuque Studio WS Jade. The polycarbonate material is stiffer, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the POM top housing of the WS Jade creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. However, both materials are known for their pleasing sound qualities, albeit at different ends of the spectrum.
In terms of bottom housing, the Jacaranda features a nylon material that enhances the sound profile by providing a deeper and fuller sound. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the WS Jade complements the top housing by also creating a deep and muted sound profile. Despite the difference in housing materials between the two switches, they both offer a unique and pleasing sound experience.
When comparing the overall sound profiles of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, it is clear that the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in shaping the sound characteristics of the switches. While the Jacaranda combines polycarbonate and nylon to create a sharp and full sound profile, the WS Jade utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing to achieve a deep and muted sound signature. Ultimately, both switches offer different but equally desirable sound qualities that cater to varying preferences in terms of typing and switch feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda is the lighter option with an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the WS Jade is the heavier option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Jacaranda provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may set in with heavier switches. On the other hand, the WS Jade offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile response. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to users with varying preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the WS Jade has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jacaranda. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who value quick response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may not be significant enough to feel noticeably different in everyday use. Overall, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance that provides a balance between responsiveness and depth.
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 Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30 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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, delivering a crisp and bright feedback with each press. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch also offers a clacky sound but with a marbly resonance, creating a unique metallic and resonant sound profile. Both switches provide an immersive auditory experience, with the Jacaranda leaning towards a sharper sound while the WS Jade offers a more resonant tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and how they sound when paired with your specific keyboard and keycap setup.
When it comes to feel, both switches are described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is noted for its silky feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing experience. Similarly, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch also provides a silky sensation while adding a creamy touch to the typing feel, making each keystroke smooth and buttery. Whether you prefer a pure silky feel or a creamy texture to your typing, both switches promise a comfortable and satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda excels in delivering a clacky and high-pitched sound profile with a uniquely bouncy typing sensation, while the WS Jade stands out with its metallic insert for a bright and resonant sound, paired with a creamy and smooth typing feel. Both switches ensure a fatigue-free and enjoyable typing experience, with the choice between them ultimately coming down to individual sound and feel preferences. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that elevates your overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force, a bouncy keystroke sensation, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force, a creamy and smooth typing feel, and a resonant sound profile, the WS Jade might be the better option. Consider your personal typing style and sound preferences to make the decision that best suits your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.