PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches offer two distinct experiences, each with its own unique appeal. The Jacaranda, crafted by KTT, is renowned for its gentle bottom-out pressure of 43.5g, making it exceptionally comfortable for prolonged typing sessions. Its clacky sound profile provides a satisfying auditory feedback that enthusiasts often crave, while the extended 22mm spring adds a delightful bounce to each keystroke. This combination results in a typing experience that is both lively and ergonomic. In contrast, the WS POM+ leverages its all-POM construction to deliver a deep, mellow "thock" sound, which is often preferred by those seeking a more subdued auditory experience. The buttery-smooth keystrokes of the WS POM+ also create a serene typing environment, perfect for users who value a less intrusive sound. While both switches cater to linear switch enthusiasts, they excel in different areas: the Jacaranda emphasizes crisp feedback and a lively touch, while the WS POM+ prioritizes a deep, satisfying thock and smooth action. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
POM
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches present a distinct contrast, particularly in their top housing components. The Jacaranda features a polycarbonate top housing, recognized for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is primarily due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances sound clarity and resonance. In addition, polycarbonate's translucency makes it a favored choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows light to permeate beautifully without distortion. In stark contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes a POM top housing that is noted for its unique sound signature, characterized by a deeper and more muted profile. This difference indicates that while both switches can deliver distinct auditory experiences, the Jacaranda is better suited for those who seek brightness and clarity, while the WS POM+ caters to preferences for immersive depth and subdued tones.
When examining the bottom housing, both the Jacaranda and WS POM+ reveal an interesting parallel in their acoustic qualities. The Jacaranda employs a nylon bottom housing, which provides a fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and rounder auditory experience. In comparison, the WS POM+ boasts a POM bottom housing that also promotes a deeper and muted sound profile. The synergy between the top and bottom housings in these switches is essential; the bottom housing greatly influences the bottom-out sound and feel during use. Thus, while the Jacaranda's nylon bottom may bring additional warmth and depth to its sound, the WS POM+ remains consistent with a similar depth through its POM composition.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in the Jacaranda and WS POM+ switches creates a nuanced sound and tactile experience for users, despite their differences. While the Jacaranda’s polycarbonate top gives it a brighter tone complemented by the depth of the nylon bottom, the WS POM+ maintains a cohesive sound profile throughout, utilizing POM for both the top and bottom. If one seeks a unique auditory journey, both switches can serve this purpose effectively; however, one will clearly lean towards clarity and brightness, while the other favors a more rounded and muted experience. Ultimately, users can expect these switches to deliver distinct results, informed by the diverse acoustic properties and materials they employ.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Jacaranda switch features a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to activate. In contrast, the WS POM+ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer push feel. Consequently, the Jacaranda is the lighter option, appealing to users looking for ease of use, while the WS POM+ provides a medium-light feel that may appeal to users seeking a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Overall, the differences highlight individual preferences for typing dynamics, with the Jacaranda catering to those who favor lightness and the WS POM+ to those who appreciate a stronger tactile sensation.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Jacaranda the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel that can be preferable for gamers seeking quick keystrokes. In contrast, the WS POM+ provides a marginally greater depth, which might appeal to users who favor a more pronounced tactile experience over faster response times. The difference in travel distance, though minimal, suggests that those who prioritize rapid inputs may gravitate towards the Jacaranda, while those valuing a deeper keystroke might opt for the WS POM+. Both switches, however, fall within the range of modern preferences for shorter travel distances.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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 offers a clacky and resonant auditory experience. The crisp and bright sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy quality, ensures that each keystroke is not only heard but felt, creating an engaging typing environment. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch features a deep, thocky sound signature that resonates with a rich, bass-heavy tone. This low-pitched, subdued audio experience transforms typing into a more mellow interaction, providing a satisfying "thud" with each press. Consequently, while the Jacaranda delivers a brighter and more percussive sound, the WS POM+ excels in producing a deeper and more resonant auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, both switches exhibit a silky typing sensation, making them exceptionally smooth in terms of keystroke execution. The Jacaranda, in particular, enhances the typing experience with a gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, allowing for fatigue-free typing and a bouncy feel due to its extended 22mm spring. Meanwhile, the WS POM+ switch is described as buttery, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke that contributes to a fluid typing experience. While both switches prioritize smoothness, the Jacaranda's combination of bounciness and lighter actuation force sets it apart, leading to a uniquely enjoyable feeling with each keystroke.
In summary, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences suitable for different preferences. The Jacaranda delivers a crisp, clacky sound with a bouncy feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more vibrant typing experience. Conversely, the WS POM+ provides a deep, thocky sound coupled with a buttery smooth keystroke, appealing to those who prefer a more resonant and laid-back typing style. Ultimately, whichever switch you choose will shape your typing experience uniquely, underscoring the personal nature of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches primarily hinges on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you're seeking a lighter switch that promotes quick, effortless typing with a delightful clacky sound, the Jacaranda is an excellent choice. Its 45-gram bottom-out force and extended spring provide a bouncy feel that not only reduces finger fatigue during long sessions but also enhances the overall sensory experience with its crisp acoustic feedback. This makes it ideal for situations where a lively typing experience and auditory feedback invigorate your workflow, such as gaming or casual typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced, luxurious sound with deeper notes, the WS POM+ linear switch should be your go-to. With a slightly heavier 55-gram activation force, it delivers a thocky acoustic profile that enriches the typing experience, making it particularly suited for quieter environments or professional settings where a more refined sound is desirable. Both switches boast smooth, silky keystrokes, but the WS POM+'s buttery feel coupled with a deeper sound may resonate better with those who engage in extensive typing tasks requiring depth and subtlety. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your tactile and auditory preferences as well as the context in which you’ll be using these switches.