PH Studio Jacaranda vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) are both exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique features that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda, a linear switch manufactured by KTT, stands out for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, making it easy on the fingers and perfect for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. It also provides a clacky sound signature, delivering crisp feedback with every keystroke, and features an extended 22mm spring for a bouncy sensation that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile, smooth operation, and pillowy feel, offering a different experience altogether. These switches are ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience without sacrificing performance. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2), it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the key difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Jacaranda features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. Conversely, the Silent Frozen (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharper and clearer sound profile associated with polycarbonate as a stiffer plastic.
While both switches offer a similar sound profile due to their shared polycarbonate top housing, the choice of bottom housing material significantly impacts the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda provides a distinct feel and sound when pressing down on a key, resulting in a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound and feel. This contrasts with the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen (V2), which maintains the sharp and clear sound profile of the switch, emphasizing the impact on sound when releasing a key. The split in housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches allows each material's unique qualities to shine through in different aspects of typing.
In conclusion, the use of different housing materials in the PH Studio Jacaranda and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) result in distinct typing experiences. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the choice of nylon for the Jacaranda's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the clear and resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Silent Frozen (V2). This split in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
Both the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch have a light actuation force of 39 grams, making them equally responsive to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Jacaranda has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Silent Frozen's 43 grams. This means that while both switches offer a light touch for typing and gaming, the Jacaranda may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Silent Frozen (V2), while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the Jacaranda. Regardless, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience that will result in similar results for most users.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. These switches offer consistent tactile feedback and actuation force while providing a smooth typing experience. Whether you choose the Jacaranda or the Silent Frozen (V2), you can expect to feel a similar level of key travel as you type, making them both suitable options for those who prefer a shorter travel distance in their switches. Overall, the decision between the two may come down to personal preference or other factors such as sound or overall 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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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, characterized by sharp and crisp feedback with each keystroke. This sound signature is bright and percussive, providing an audible typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is known for its thocky and muted sound profile. These switches produce a deep, rich, and quiet sound that is satisfying and minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Depending on your preference for sound, the Jacaranda will provide a more lively and engaging typing experience, while the Silent Frozen (V2) will offer a more subtle and smooth auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. This switch minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is known for its creamy and buttery feel. These switches provide a smooth and effortless keystroke experience, allowing your fingers to glide across the keys with ease. Additionally, the Silent Frozen (V2) offers feathery, subtle, and polished sensations, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions while maintaining a sleek typing experience. Depending on your preference for feel, the Jacaranda will provide a smoother and more refined typing feel, while the Silent Frozen (V2) will offer a buttery and effortless keystroke experience.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jacaranda excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a silky typing experience, enhancing the auditory and tactile aspects of typing. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) stands out for its thocky and muted sound profile, combined with a creamy and buttery feel that provides a satisfying and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for users seeking specific sound and feel profiles.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch or the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in typing experience. If you prioritize a bouncy sensation with a crisp and clacky sound, along with a light 45g bottom out force, then the Jacaranda switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer an extremely quiet and smooth typing experience with a pillowy feel and a slightly lighter 43g bottom out force, then the Silent Frozen (V2) switch would better suit your needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you in order to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between the Jacaranda and the Silent Frozen (V2) will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
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