PH Studio Jacaranda vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Xinhai are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Jacaranda, known for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, is perfect for those seeking a fatigue-free typing experience with a clacky sound signature and a bouncy feel due to its extended 22mm spring. On the other hand, the Xinhai stands out with its unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, offering a blend of sophistication and precise performance. Choosing between the two switches will ultimately depend on your preference for specific sound profiles and typing sensations. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Xinhai both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, given its translucency. On the other hand, the Jacaranda and Xinhai differ in their bottom housings, with the Jacaranda using a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Xinhai also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing for a similar effect.
In terms of sound characteristics, both the Jacaranda and Xinhai benefit from their polycarbonate top housing, which creates a clear and resonant sound profile. The use of this material enhances the overall acoustic experience of the switches, making them suitable for users who prioritize sound quality. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Jacaranda's nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing.
While both the Jacaranda and Xinhai share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the differences in their nylon bottom housings highlight the importance of housing material in influencing the sound profile of a switch. The split qualities of the bottom and top housings impact how the switches feel and sound during use, emphasizing the significance of material choice in creating a unique typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall within the lighter weight category in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or intense gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Despite the slight difference in actuation force, the bottom out force remains the same for both switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall typing feel and experience when using either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is slightly longer at 3.5 mm compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch at 3.4 mm. While the difference in travel distance is minimal, the Jacaranda offers a slightly longer key press experience. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum in terms of travel distance, making them ideal for those seeking a quicker response time. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance for faster gameplay. However, for those who appreciate a deeper key press, the Xinhai may provide a more satisfying typing experience with its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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 high-pitched sound profile that is crisp, bright, and percussive, creating an immersive auditory experience with each key press. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai switch also provides a clacky sound but with a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. Both switches deliver a unique sound experience that can enhance typing enjoyment, although the Xinhai may have a slightly softer sound due to its PA12 top housing.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Xinhai switch is also noted for its creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation that enhances the overall feel of typing.
Considering both switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth typing experience, making it a great choice for those looking for a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a softer sound profile with a bouncy and creamy typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a more subtle acoustics profile and a lively feel when typing. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch or the HMX Xinhai linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you value a light bottom-out force, a unique bouncy sensation, and a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer acoustics profile, a higher-pitched resonance, and a bouncy or creamy typing feel, the Xinhai switch might be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to your personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience.
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