PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Onion 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 Onion both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda, a linear switch from KTT, is lauded for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it exceptionally easy on the fingers and great for extended typing sessions without fatigue. Its clacky sound signature adds a satisfying auditory experience to each keystroke, enhanced by the extended 22mm spring that delivers a bouncy sensation. On the other hand, the WS Onion switches from Wuque Studio boast a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, providing a smooth and buttery keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. With a crisp and responsive feel and a neutral sound profile, the WS Onions offer a polished typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, but diving deeper beyond these generalities will help you determine the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Onion both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while the top housing of both switches is the same material, the differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Jacaranda features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the WS Onion also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience.
Despite both switches having polycarbonate top housing, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Onion results in slightly different typing experiences. Nylon is known for absorbing sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. This means that when pressing down on the switch, users may notice a deeper sound and feel due to the properties of the nylon bottom housing. However, when releasing a key, the impact of the top housing material, polycarbonate, will be more prominent as it affects the sound produced during key release. Overall, both switches offer a unique typing experience due to the combination of different housing materials utilized.
In conclusion, while the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Onion share the same polycarbonate top housing, their use of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, while the softness of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper typing sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, with the combination of housing materials contributing to the overall feel and sound of the switches.
Weight
The Jacaranda linear switch from PH Studio has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. In contrast, the WS Onion linear switch from Wuque Studio has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who enjoy a stronger push feel. When comparing the two, the Jacaranda is lighter overall, while the WS Onion is on the heavier side. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Jacaranda, while those who prefer a heavier feel may opt for the WS Onion. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda offers a slightly quicker response time, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster input feedback. On the other hand, the WS Onion provides a bit more depth in key press, which some users may find more comfortable and less abrupt. Both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and percussive feedback with each press. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users. If you prefer a more crisp and audible typing experience, the Jacaranda may be the better choice, while the Onion switch provides a quieter and more subdued sound.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as offering a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness. In contrast, the WS Onion switch is known for its buttery and polished feel, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. If you prefer a switch that feels luxurious and refined, the Onion switch may be the way to go, while the Jacaranda offers a smooth and frictionless typing experience.
Overall, both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jacaranda stands out with its clacky sound and silky feel, while the WS Onion provides a neutral sound profile and a buttery smooth typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. With similar actuation forces and linear switch design, both switches offer comparable results in terms of performance, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a light bottom out force for a fatigue-free typing experience with a uniquely bouncy sensation, opt for the Jacaranda. The Jacaranda produces a clacky sound profile that is crisp and bright. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying, go for the WS Onion. The WS Onion offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and overall feel. Choose wisely based on what aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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