PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, there are distinct qualities that set them apart. The Jacaranda is praised for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, clacky sound signature, and uniquely bouncy sensation from its extended 22mm spring, providing a fatigue-free typing experience like no other. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch from Wuque Studio stands out for its medium tactility, superior noise reduction, and silent yet crisp typing experience without silicone dampeners. While the Jacaranda offers a more energetic and resonant typing experience, the WS Silent Tactile excels in providing a quiet and tactile feel, making it ideal for office settings. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, we can see that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Both switches benefit from the properties of nylon, which include creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch, thanks to the shared nylon bottom housing.
However, when it comes to the top housing material, the Jacaranda features a polycarbonate top housing while the WS Silent Tactile uses a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the deeper and fuller sound produced by nylon. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch. On the other hand, nylon's softer nature creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience.
The division of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches also plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This makes the choice of housing material crucial in determining the overall sound profile and typing feel of a switch. So, while both switches share a nylon bottom housing, the use of polycarbonate in the Jacaranda's top housing and nylon in the WS Silent Tactile's top housing will result in noticeable differences in the typing experience between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Jacaranda has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a smoother and easier typing experience. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The lighter actuation force of the Jacaranda is ideal for typing for longer periods or engaging in extended gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the WS Silent Tactile provides a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and keypress resistance.
Travel distance
Both the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you'll experience the same distance of travel. This similarity ensures that users can expect consistent and familiar typing experiences regardless of which switch they choose. The equal travel distance of these switches highlights the focus on precision and comfort in their design, catering to the preferences of users who prioritize a specific key feel during typing.
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 Silent 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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience with every key press. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers a more neutral and muted sound, making it ideal for quiet office environments or individuals who prefer a softer typing noise. Both switches provide different sound experiences that cater to varying preferences, with the Jacaranda delivering a more pronounced and resonant sound compared to the understated tranquility of the WS Silent Tactile.
In terms of feel, the Jacaranda switch offers a silky typing experience with its smooth actuation and minimal resistance, enhancing the overall typing comfort. Meanwhile, the WS Silent Tactile switch provides an accented tactile feedback, striking a balance between a medium tactility and a non-scratchy feel. The WS Silent Tactile switch also offers an invigorating typing sensation with moderate to firm actuation force, creating a reactive and immersive experience for users. Both switches excel in providing different tactile experiences, with the Jacaranda focusing on smoothness and the WS Silent Tactile emphasizing a balanced tactile feedback.
Overall, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, they both cater to specific preferences and typing needs. The Jacaranda stands out with its clacky sound and silky feel, providing a bouncy and smooth typing experience. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile switch impresses with its muted sound and accented tactile feedback, offering a quiet yet responsive typing experience. Depending on whether a user values a louder, crisp sound or a softer, more tactile feel, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking different typing experiences. Ultimately, while the sound and feel may differ between the two switches, users can expect satisfying results based on their individual preferences and needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a bouncy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, superior noise reduction, and a silent yet tactile typing experience, the WS Silent Tactile switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. Both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs.