PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile offer distinct typing experiences. The Jacaranda, a linear switch manufactured by KTT, stands out for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers and suitable for fatigue-free typing. With a clacky sound signature and an extended 22mm spring, each keystroke on the Jacaranda provides a bouncy sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switches are known for their smoothness, snappy tactile bump, and neutral sound signature, making them easy to press. If you prefer a linear switch with a unique bouncy sensation, the Jacaranda may be the way to go. However, for a switch that combines smoothness with a tactile bump and neutral sound, the WS Light Tactile could be the better choice. 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
50g
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
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
15.4mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. While both switches share this common material for the top housing, they may still offer unique sound characteristics based on their overall design and construction.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Jacaranda and the WS Light Tactile utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings tends to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite both switches sharing nylon bottom housings, they may still offer distinct typing experiences due to other factors such as spring weight, stem design, and overall switch construction.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile are the same, the impact of these materials on the overall typing experience can vary. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. By understanding how these materials interact with each other and other components of the switch, enthusiasts can fine-tune their typing experience to suit their preferences.
Weight
The Jacaranda linear switch from PH Studio has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the WS Light Tactile switch from Wuque Studio. The Jacaranda requires 39 grams of force to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, while the WS Light Tactile needs 45 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out. The lighter weights of the Jacaranda may make it preferable for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it allows for smoother and easier keystrokes. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile offers a slightly heavier typing experience, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the WS Light Tactile switch provides a deeper keypress feel with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial keypress. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences. Overall, if you prefer a quicker and more responsive typing experience, the Jacaranda switch would be the better option, while the WS Light Tactile switch would suit those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress.
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 Light Tactile comes in at $4.20 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 characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature, suitable for a variety of typing environments. Depending on personal preference, the Jacaranda's distinctive clacky sound may be favored for its crisp and audible feedback, while the WS Light Tactile's neutral sound profile appeals to those seeking a more understated typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance and maximizing smoothness during keystrokes. In contrast, the WS Light Tactile switch is described as having a stepped feel, providing a tactile bump that is more moderate compared to hyper-tactile switches. Additionally, the WS Light Tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force for key actuation, making typing effortless and comfortable.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jacaranda's clacky sound and silky smooth feel cater to those who prefer a more pronounced auditory and tactile experience, while the WS Light Tactile switch's neutral sound profile and easy-to-press feel provide a more versatile option for different typing preferences. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In sum, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Light Tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force and enjoy a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. Its clacky sound signature and silky feel provide a unique typing experience that is gentle on the fingers. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom-out force and appreciate a snappy tactile bump with a neutral sound profile, the WS Light Tactile switch offers a smooth and easy-to-press typing feel. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths, so be sure to consider how each aligns with your typing preferences before making a decision.
Mentioned in this article
