Bsun Akashi vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi and the Jwick Splash Brothers mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, they offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Akashi is renowned for its unique tactile feedback, featuring a UPE stem for smoothness and a hybrid housing combo of POM top and nylon bottom, resulting in a bright and crisp bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers, inspired by the basketball duo Steph and Klay, boasts a shorter activation and a creamy sound signature. The Akashi is described as 'clacky', 'creamy', and 'silky', while the Splash Brothers are characterized as 'neutral', 'snappy', and 'bouncy'. Each switch provides a different typing experience, appealing to users who value either a resonant and polished feel or a snappy and subtle response. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches offer unique sound profiles due to their different compositions. The Akashi features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the Splash Brothers use a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. On the other hand, both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition.
One key difference between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. The POM top housing of the Akashi provides a distinct sound profile that is more subdued, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Splash Brothers offers a sharper and more resonant sound. This contrast in sound quality can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users, depending on their preference for sound feedback. However, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile that is generally consistent between the two switches.
In terms of feel, the bottom housing material plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom can have a direct impact on the overall typing experience. Despite their differences in top housing materials, the Akashi and Splash Brothers switches both offer a solid typing experience with unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the selection between the two switches may come down to personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a relatively light bottom out force, with the Akashi at 43 grams and the Splash Brothers at 48 grams. This means that both switches provide a light typing experience overall. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Akashi more comfortable for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a slightly stronger push may lean towards the Splash Brothers for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and preference of the user.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is evident that the Akashi has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Splash Brothers' 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular today, the Akashi offers a tad more depth than the Splash Brothers. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Splash Brothers, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Akashi. Ultimately, both switches provide a relatively short travel distance and will likely yield similar results for most users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
The Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 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 it comes to sound, the Bsun Akashi linear switch offers a clacky experience with a sharp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch provides a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Akashi delivering a more vibrant and lively sound compared to the more subtle sound of the Splash Brothers.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Akashi switch is known for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press attributes, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. Conversely, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch offers a mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished typing feel, catering to individuals looking for a more gentle and lively typing experience. Despite the differences in feel, both switches offer a comfortable and responsive typing experience that can suit a wide range of preferences.
Overall, the Bsun Akashi linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile characterized by a clacky and resonant bottom-out, paired with a smooth and buttery typing feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a creamy sound signature with a great typing feel that strikes a middle ground in terms of characteristics. While each switch has its own set of qualities, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either option, depending on their sound and feel preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance that can enhance the overall keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a smoother, creamy feel with a bright and crisp sound, the Akashi may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more approachable and gentle typing experience with a creamy sound signature, the Splash Brothers might be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound. So, think about what type of typing experience you prefer and choose accordingly. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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