PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream both offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. The Jacaranda, a linear switch, stands out for its gentle bottom-out force of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers and perfect for fatigue-free typing. It also provides a clacky sound signature with a crisp feedback and a bouncy sensation thanks to its extended 22mm spring. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream, another linear switch, offers a heftier typing experience with a deep sound profile that adds texture to each keystroke. While the Jacaranda is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Resonant', the Cream switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating'. Both switches have their own strengths and reasons why you might choose them, 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer distinct characteristics that affect sound and feel. The Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a clear and resonant profile due to its relatively stiff nature, while the NovelKeys Cream's POM top housing creates a deeper, more muted sound. Both materials have their own unique aesthetic qualities, with polycarbonate's translucency making it ideal for RGB lighting effects, while POM offers a pleasing and distinctive look.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Jacaranda utilizes a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. Conversely, the NovelKeys Cream features a POM bottom housing that contributes to its deep and relatively muted sound profile. Both housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience and sound feedback when using these switches.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Jacaranda and NovelKeys Cream switches differ, they each impact the sound and feel in their unique ways. The qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced during key presses, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a range of sound profiles and aesthetics to cater to individual preferences and typing styles. Whether using polycarbonate or POM materials, users can expect quality performance and a satisfying typing experience from these switches.
Weight
In comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Cream switch. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch in comparison. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Jacaranda, as it allows for longer typing sessions with less strain. In contrast, the Cream switch offers a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier actuation and bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force, with the Jacaranda being the lighter option and the Cream being the heavier option.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances for mechanical switches, with the NovelKeys Cream being more towards the traditional end of the spectrum. Gamers may prefer the Jacaranda for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may gravitate towards the NovelKeys Cream for its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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 sound profile with a crisp and audible feedback that adds a tactile element to typing. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch provides a deeper sound profile that may offer a more subdued auditory experience compared to the Jacaranda. Users who prefer a sharper and more pronounced sound when typing may find the Jacaranda more satisfying, while those who prefer a mellower tone may lean towards the Cream switch.
Regarding feel, the Jacaranda switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Conversely, the NovelKeys Cream switch is described as offering a buttery and textured typing sensation, potentially providing a more varied and tactile feel compared to the Jacaranda. Users who prioritize a seamless and uniform typing experience may gravitate towards the Cream switch, while those who prefer a smoother and friction-free feel may prefer the Jacaranda.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offer unique characteristics in both sound and feel. The Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall typing experience with its bouncy sensation and gentle actuation force. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch delivers a deeper sound profile and a buttery textured feel, catering to users who appreciate a more varied and tactile typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and feel, as both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, your choice should depend on your personal typing preferences and needs. If you value a lighter bottom-out force, a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, and a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the ideal option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force, a deeper sound profile, and a buttery, textured, or invigorating feel, the NovelKeys Cream could be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing experience you desire and your individual preferences when it comes to sound and feel.
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