PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch offer distinct typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Jacaranda, known for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force and clacky sound signature, provides a fatigue-free typing experience with a uniquely bouncy sensation thanks to its extended 22mm spring. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch is praised for its satisfying clicky feedback, making each press more tactile and audible. While the Jacaranda is ideal for those who prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience, the Outemu Blue is perfect for individuals who enjoy a more tactile and clicky feel while typing. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Blue switches, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing is particularly beneficial for those who wish to incorporate RGB lighting into their keyboards. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Jacaranda features a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound. In contrast, the Outemu Blue also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and richness.
While both the Jacaranda and the Outemu Blue switches share similarities in their housing materials, the split between the top and bottom housings creates distinct qualities in each switch. The bottom housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a crucial role in the sound when releasing a key. In this case, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and resonant sound compared to the bottom housing.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Outemu Blue switches may seem similar at first glance, the differences in their bottom housings provide unique typing experiences. Both switches benefit from the sharp and crisp sound profile achieved with polycarbonate in the top housing, making them ideal for those who prioritize sound quality. The nylon bottom housing of both switches enhances the depth and fullness of the typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in customizing keyboard switches to suit individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Jacaranda has an actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a relatively light switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, with the bottom out force being unavailable. The difference in actuation force indicates that the Outemu Blue clicky switch requires a slightly heavier touch to initiate a keystroke compared to the Jacaranda. While the Jacaranda provides a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Blue clicky switch may appeal to those seeking a more substantial and tactile feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Jacaranda has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Blue has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Blue's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke depth for some users. Both options offer unique benefits depending on personal preference, with the Jacaranda catering to those seeking a quicker key press experience, and the Blue appealing to those who prefer a more substantive keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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 it comes to sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched feedback with each press, giving users a crisp and clear auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, both switches can provide satisfying sound profiles that enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing an exceptionally comfortable feel for extended typing sessions. Unfortunately, information about the exact feel of the Outemu Blue clicky switch is not available. Nevertheless, both switches aim to offer a tactile feedback that enhances typing speed and accuracy, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.
Ultimately, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch each have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a silky smooth typing feel, the specific sound and feel of the Outemu Blue switch remain unknown. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, users can choose between these switches to tailor their mechanical keyboard setup to their liking. It's important to consider factors such as noise levels, tactile feedback, and personal comfort when selecting the ideal switch for a customized typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch or the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a light bottom-out force, a gentle typing experience with a bouncy sensation, and a clacky sound profile, then the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a high-pitched sound and are looking for a switch with a bottom-out force that is not specified, the Outemu Blue switch could be more suitable for your typing style. Remember to consider factors such as sound, feel, and overall typing experience when making your decision. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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