PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch are both excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, each offering unique features that cater to different typing preferences. The Jacaranda stands out for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, making it a comfortable choice for fatigue-free typing. It produces a clacky sound signature with a crisp feedback, enhanced by its extended 22mm spring that adds a bouncy sensation to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Sky V3 switches are praised for their neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, striking a balance between comfort and precision. While the Jacaranda leans towards a more resonant and high-pitched profile, the Sky V3 offers a more subdued and mild typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own merits and it's important to consider your personal preferences when choosing between 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
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Dareu Sky V3 feature a polycarbonate top housing that enhances the sound profile of the switches, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the keyboards. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, highlighting the clicky feedback that these switches are known for.
While the top housing of both switches is made of polycarbonate, the PH Studio Jacaranda boasts a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound upon typing on the switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 also features a nylon bottom housing, ensuring a similar typing experience with a focus on enhancing the switch's sound quality.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Dareu Sky V3 splits the qualities each material brings between the top and bottom of the switches. This division affects the sound and feel of typing on these switches, where the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Despite some differences in housing materials, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The Jacaranda has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Sky V3 is slightly heavier at 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Jacaranda requires 45 grams to fully press the key, whereas the force required for the Sky V3 is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Jacaranda, as it allows for longer typing sessions with less strain. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the slightly heavier actuation force of the Sky V3. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Jacaranda has a shorter travel distance compared to the Sky V3. A shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can provide a more pronounced key press feel. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Jacaranda being slightly shorter and the Sky V3 being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press feel and responsiveness.
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 Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 is best known for its clacky and high-pitched profile, producing crisp and sharp feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is recognized for its neutral and subdued sound, offering a more moderate and dampened auditory experience. Both switches provide unique sound profiles catering to different preferences, with the Jacaranda leaning towards a more distinctive and lively sound, while the Sky V3 opts for a more balanced and versatile sound suitable for various environments.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda switch is characterized by its silky smooth typing experience, ensuring a comfortable and frictionless keystroke with each press. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 switch offers a mild typing experience, striking a middle ground between gentle actuation and tactile feedback. Both switches provide a pleasant typing feel, with the Jacaranda emphasizing smoothness and the Sky V3 focusing on an approachable and versatile typing experience.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch stands out for its unique bouncy sensation thanks to the extended spring, combined with a clacky sound and silky smooth feel, making it a standout choice for those seeking a lively and ergonomic typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a balanced sound profile and a mild typing feel, catering to a wider range of users with different preferences. While their subjective qualities differ in sound and feel, both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that users will achieve similar results in terms of performance and comfort regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, you should consider the specific characteristics that suit your typing preferences. If you value a light bottom-out force, a clacky sound profile, and a bouncy typing experience, the Jacaranda switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile, a moderate typing experience, and widespread acclaim among enthusiasts and professionals, the Sky V3 switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the unique features of the Jacaranda or the versatile qualities of the Sky V3 to enhance your overall typing experience.
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