PH Studio Jacaranda vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the distinctions between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches highlight the nuances in user experience. The Jacaranda, crafted by KTT, is celebrated for its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g that offers a smooth and forgiving typing experience, making it perfect for those who type for extended periods. Its clacky and high-pitched sound profile adds an engaging auditory feedback, while the unique 22mm spring delivers a distinctive bounce, enhancing the overall sensation of each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch provides a different approach with a heavier feel that caters to users who appreciate a more substantial tactile feedback. Designed with a lightweight PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for crisp resonance, it combines sophistication with performance, appealing to those who seek precision in their typing. Both switches bring their unique charm and functionality to the table, but understanding their specific characteristics can help you make a more informed decision. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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 (Heavy) differ notably in their top housing materials, with the Jacaranda featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Xinhai utilizing nylon. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, which can enhance the clarity and resonance of keystrokes. This material's translucency also makes it particularly advantageous for those looking to incorporate RGB lighting into their setups, as it allows for vibrant color visibility. In contrast, the nylon used in the Xinhai's top housing results in a softer, deeper sound profile that absorbs more sound and produces a duller, rounder auditory experience. This fundamental difference in design highlights how each type of top housing affects overall sound characteristics, making the two switches distinctly different in acoustic performance.
Conversely, both the Jacaranda and the Xinhai employ nylon for their bottom housing, leading to similar performance attributes in this aspect. The nylon material's inherent qualities foster a fuller sound profile that is prevalent when the user presses the keys down. Because nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs sound rather than reflecting it, contributing to a cushioned bottom-out feel that enhances the typing experience across both switches. This consistency in bottom housing material means that users can expect a comparably rich, deep auditory response when actuating the keys, regardless of which switch they choose.
In essence, the distinguishing factor between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) lies primarily in their top housing materials, with polycarbonate fostering a sharper sound and nylon providing a deeper tone. However, with both switches sharing nylon for their bottom housings, they offer a similar experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. When considering the overall performance of each switch, the differences in top housing material play a significant role in shaping the auditory experience, while the shared nylon in the bottoms provides a harmonizing element that ties the two together. Thus, while the Jacaranda and Xinhai can deliver disparate sounds during key releases, their common bottom building blocks ensure a consistent typing experience built on a foundation of plush, deep audio feedback.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch with the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are clear distinctions in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Jacaranda, with a light actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, is well-suited for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, making it ideal for prolonged use in work or gaming environments. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) demands a greater actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, catering to those who seek a heavier switch for a more substantial tactile feedback during typing. As a result, the Jacaranda is the lighter option, while the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a firmer feel for users who appreciate increased resistance. Overall, if one prefers a lighter switch, the Jacaranda is the choice to enable more comfortable extended typing, whereas the Xinhai (Heavy) will be more appealing to those who prefer a more substantial actuation experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we find that the Jacaranda features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a slightly shorter distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Jacaranda the longer option, providing a more substantial depth that some users might appreciate for a hearty feel during key presses. In contrast, the Xinhai's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers and speed enthusiasts seeking quicker response times. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding the balance of depth and responsiveness.
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 (Heavy) 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 (Heavy) 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 lively auditory experience characterized by its clacky, high-pitched, and resonant qualities. This switch produces a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive, contributing to an engaging typing atmosphere. The distinctive auditory feedback can be enjoyable for users who appreciate a more pronounced and lively sound profile. In contrast, while the specifics of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch's sound signature haven't been detailed, it's known for its unique PA12 top housing, which is designed to create softer acoustics. This suggests that it might produce a different, possibly mellower sound than the Jacaranda, but without specific descriptors, this remains uncertain.
When it comes to feel, the Jacaranda switch excels in providing a silky smooth typing experience. The exceptionally smooth action minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, making it a delight for those who favor effortless keystrokes. This is further enhanced by the switch's gentle bottom-out of 43.5g and the unique 22mm spring that adds a delightful bounce, contributing to the tactile enjoyment of each keystroke. Unfortunately, the feel of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch hasn’t been specified, leaving a gap in comparisons in this regard.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is tailored for those who crave a lively sound and a silky, smooth typing experience with a touch of bounce. In comparison, while we can infer that the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a different auditory experience due to its construction, the exact feel remains undefined. For newcomers to mechanical keyboards, exploring both switches could yield valuable insights into personal preferences, particularly as sound and feel are paramount in achieving an optimal typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch primarily depends on your personal preferences in typing feel, sound, and the amount of force you prefer when actuating the keys. If you favor a lighter switch that is gentle on the fingers and offers a bouncy, smooth experience with a comfortable 45-gram bottom-out force, the Jacaranda is an excellent choice. Its clacky, high-pitched sound signature and silky feel provide an engaging and fatigue-free typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions or for those who enjoy a more responsive tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a firmer feel, the Xinhai (Heavy), with its 62.5-gram bottom-out force, might be more suitable for you. This switch provides a more substantial tactile feedback that can be particularly satisfying for typists who enjoy a bit of resistance to their key presses. Additionally, the Xinhai's refined sound profile and precise performance make it a great option for professional settings or focused work where you need clear auditory feedback without excessive noise. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style and the kind of feedback you enjoy most while using your keyboard.
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