PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Red 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 Red both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, with its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g and clacky sound signature, provides a smooth and fatigue-free typing experience. Its extended 22mm spring adds a bouncy sensation to each keystroke, making typing feel lively and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red boasts a 22mm double-stage spring, offering a responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force. This results in a satisfying and substantial typing feel that some users may prefer. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Red, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches utilizing nylon in the bottom housing. Thus, both switches would produce similar sound profiles in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, as the nylon material in the bottom housing plays a significant role in creating the overall typing experience.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the PH Studio Jacaranda differs from the Wuque Studio WS Red in its use of polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housings is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the visual appeal. In contrast, the WS Red utilizes nylon for its top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of switches using this classic housing material. Therefore, the choice of housing material for the top housing in these switches results in distinct sound profiles, catering to different preferences for sound and tactile feedback during typing.
In summary, while both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Red feature nylon bottom housings, they diverge in their choice of top housing material. The PH Studio Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a higher-pitched typing experience with RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the WS Red's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, catering to individuals seeking a more rounded sound when typing. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for these switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the typing experience for users.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Jacaranda has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the WS Red has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This makes the Jacaranda switch ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, while the WS Red switch is more suited for those who prefer a more substantial push feel. Overall, the Jacaranda is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, while the WS Red is heavier in comparison. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a lighter or heavier typing experience with these switches.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, we find that the Jacaranda has a travel distance of 3.5 mm while the WS Red has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the WS Red has a slightly longer travel distance than the Jacaranda. Both options fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for faster response times. If you are looking for a switch with a shorter travel distance for quick and responsive typing or gaming, either option would provide similar results. However, if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, you may find the WS Red to be slightly more to your liking due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference 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 Red comes in at $3.50 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 sound profile, providing a sharp and audible feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown at this time, indicating that its sound profile may differ from the Jacaranda. Depending on personal preference, users may gravitate towards the Jacaranda for its distinct clacky sound or opt for the WS Red for a potentially different auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is noted for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch's feel remains undisclosed, leaving ambiguity regarding its typing characteristics. Those seeking a smooth and effortless typing feel may find the Jacaranda to be the ideal choice, whereas the WS Red's feel may offer a different tactile experience that caters to individual preferences.
Overall, both the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch bring unique qualities to the table. The Jacaranda stands out with its bouncy keystrokes, gentle actuation force, clacky sound, and silky feel, providing a well-rounded typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Red's 22mm double-stage spring, potentially different sound profile, and unknown feel suggest a different typing experience that may appeal to users seeking a different tactile and auditory sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If one enjoys the qualities of the Jacaranda, selecting the WS Red may offer a similar typing experience, albeit with potentially different nuances to explore.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prioritize a lighter bottom-out force of 45 grams, a bouncy keystroke sensation, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams, a bouncy and responsive typing experience, and a satisfying typing feel, the WS Red switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what specific characteristics you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.