PH Studio Jacaranda vs. HMX Jammy
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Jammy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda, a linear switch, and the HMX Jammy, also a linear switch, each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Jacaranda, with its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g and clacky sound signature, provides a fatigue-free typing experience with a crisp and audible feedback. The extended 22mm spring in the Jacaranda gives each keystroke a bouncy sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Jammy boasts softer and glittery nylon housings, offering a muted but deeply satisfying typing experience. While the Jacaranda is known for its unique bouncy sensation and clacky sound, the Jammy provides a quieter and more muted typing experience. 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
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.70 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-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the HMX Jammy both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Jacaranda utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Jammy utilizes nylon for its top housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a more resonant sound, whereas the softer nylon absorbs more sound, creating a rounder tone. Despite these differences, both materials are considered classic switch housing options that have been chosen for their distinct sound qualities.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Jacaranda and the Jammy use nylon. This choice results in a similar deep and full sound profile for both switches. The softer nature of nylon helps absorb sound, contributing to a duller and rounder tone. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures a consistent sound experience when typing on either switch. Although the top and bottom housings differ between the Jacaranda and the Jammy, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in both models provides a shared quality in the sound profile, creating a familiar typing experience irrespective of the switch model.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the switch's overall sound, it becomes apparent that each material brings unique qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. The combination of these different housing materials in the Jacaranda and Jammy switches allows for a nuanced and complex sound profile, catering to a variety of preferences for typing enthusiasts. Whether it be the sharper, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller tone of nylon, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different sound preferences.
Weight
In comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, it is clear that the Jacaranda is the lighter option with an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Jammy is the heavier of the two, with an actuation force of 57 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. The Jacaranda provides a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Jammy offers a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a heavier key press. Both switches have a noticeable difference in actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Jammy linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for gamers looking for quick response times. However, the Jacaranda offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those who prioritize speed and agility in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Jammy's slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a more pronounced keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of how much key travel depth one prefers.
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 Jammy comes in at $3.49 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 comparing the sound quality of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the HMX Jammy linear switch, the Jacaranda is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a crisp and audible feedback with each press. On the other hand, information on the sound quality of the Jammy switch is not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of sound.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda switch is described as having a silky feel, indicating an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, there is no information available regarding the feel of the Jammy switch, making it challenging to evaluate and compare the tactile experience between the two switches.
Overall, based on the available information, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch stands out for its gentle bottom-out force, unique bouncy sensation from the extended spring, clacky sound profile, and silky feel. Without detailed information on the HMX Jammy linear switch's sound and feel qualities, it is challenging to provide a direct comparison between the two switches in these aspects. However, if both switches are similar in characteristics not mentioned here, users can expect comparable results in terms of typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch or the HMX Jammy linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a bouncy sensation with a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a muted and satisfying typing experience, the Jammy switch could be more to your liking. Keep in mind the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to help guide your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choosing between them ultimately depends on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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