PH Studio Jacaranda vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda and the TTC Yunhai linear switches, enthusiasts will find both options cater to distinct typing preferences while sharing a linear design that promotes smooth key presses. The PH Studio Jacaranda, renowned for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g and its bouncy, tactile feel due to the extended 22mm spring, offers a delightful typing experience marked by its clacky and resonant sound profile. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a lively auditory feedback and a cushioned bottoming-out sensation, making it particularly suitable for those who type for extended periods and seek comfort. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai switches are characterized by their deep, rounded sound profile and incredibly light actuation force, which allows for an effortless typing experience. This makes them an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter, more subdued typing sound without sacrificing sensitivity and ease of use. Both switches present unique advantages to different typing styles; 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
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the PH Studio Jacaranda and the TTC Yunhai switches reflect distinct acoustic characteristics that significantly influence their overall sound profiles. The Jacaranda features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is primarily attributed to polycarbonate’s stiffer nature, resulting in greater resonance and clarity when the switch is engaged or released. The clear finish of the polycarbonate also offers aesthetic benefits, enhancing the visibility of RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Yunhai utilizes a nylon top housing, which, while also classic, generates a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon leads to greater sound absorption, resulting in a rounder and more muted acoustic response. This fundamental difference in material affects how users perceive the typing experience when engaging the keys.
Interestingly, both the Jacaranda and Yunhai utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which serves a critical role in shaping the overall auditory experience. Nylon's inherent softness plays a crucial role in producing a more subdued sound profile, providing a smoother bottom-out experience when the key is fully pressed. As a result, both switches deliver a deeper and fuller sound when typed on, illustrating the versatility of nylon as a housing material. Though the top housings diverge in material choice and resultant sound attributes, the compatibility of nylon in the bottom section of both switches helps maintain a level of acoustic cohesion across the two products.
When considering the combined effect of these materials, it becomes clear how the differences in the top housing and similarities in the bottom housing contribute to a distinctive yet unified typing experience. The Jacaranda, with its polycarbonate top, presents a crisper sound upon release, while the Yunhai's nylon top generates a rounder tone. However, the nylon bottom housing in both switches elicits a similar deep, resonant response during key presses. Thus, while they each present unique auditory characteristics, the harmonious blend of these materials ensures that both products deliver satisfying, yet varied, sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing feel and acoustics.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, both exhibit relatively light force characteristics, although the Jacaranda is slightly lighter overall. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Yunhai requires a bit more with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. For users who prefer a softer typing experience suited for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Jacaranda would likely be the more appealing choice due to its lower force requirements. In contrast, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel might gravitate toward the Yunhai, as its higher actuation and bottom out forces deliver a firmer response. Overall, while both switches are light, the Jacaranda provides a gentler touch, making it optimal for longer use, whereas the Yunhai caters to those seeking a heftier feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch measures 3.5 mm, while the TTC Yunhai linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Jacaranda the shorter option by 0.1 mm. For gamers seeking quicker response times, the Jacaranda may be the preferable choice due to its shorter travel distance, which can enhance speed during play. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing keys might opt for the Yunhai switch, given its deeper travel distance. Overall, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Jacaranda's shorter travel distance provides a more responsive experience, whereas the Yunhai offers a more hearty depth.
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 TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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
The sound profile of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is characterized by a distinct clacky and high-pitched quality. Each keystroke produces a crisp and resonant auditory feedback that many typists find satisfying and engaging. This sharper sound signature is often appreciated in a mechanical keyboard, making it ideal for users who enjoy an audible response as they type. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai linear switch does not have a specified sound profile, leaving its auditory qualities largely unknown. However, the Jacaranda’s well-defined and bright audio feedback sets it apart, appealing to those who favor a more vibrant keyboard experience.
When it comes to the tactile feel, the Jacaranda switch impresses with its silky smoothness, making for an exceptionally fluid typing motion. This quality enhances the overall typing experience by minimizing resistance during both pressing and releasing actions. The light bottom-out force of 43.5g contributes to this effortless feeling, which translates to comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai's tactile characteristics remain unspecified, creating ambiguity about its feel. Nevertheless, the Jacaranda's defined silky texture is a clear highlight for typists seeking smoothness in their keyboard switches.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a rich combination of sound and feel that many users may find appealing, particularly due to its clacky and resonant audio and remarkably smooth operation. The switch’s design, along with its gentle actuation force, caters well to typists looking for a fatigue-free experience. While the TTC Yunhai's qualities are not elaborated upon, both switches serve specific preferences in the keyboard enthusiast community, and users can expect a different experience depending on their choice. The unique attributes of the Jacaranda position it as a solid option for those who value both auditory feedback and a smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you are looking for a switch that offers a light actuation force and you appreciate a bouncy, responsive feel, the Jacaranda would likely be your best choice. Its distinct clacky sound and silky smoothness make it ideal for both typing enthusiasts and gamers who enjoy a responsive, feedback-rich experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more effortless typing experience with a deep, rounded sound profile, you might gravitate towards the Yunhai switch. With a slightly higher bottom-out force, it still provides a gentle touch but embodies a different auditory and tactile sensation. Ultimately, consider your typing style, whether you lean towards a spirited, auditory experience or a smoother, understated feel, to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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