KTT Ash Gray vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Jwick Splash Brothers offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Ash Gray switch is a tactile switch that delivers a tactile response that strikes a perfect balance between being substantial and unobtrusive. It provides a light touch with a crisp actuation, offering a delightful blend of tactile feedback without overwhelming sensations. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers is a linear switch designed for speed typists. It features a shorter activation combined with a long pole stem, resulting in a great typing feel. Additionally, these switches emit a creamy sound signature. The Ash Gray is categorized as easy-to-press, mild, and neutral, while the Splash Brothers are labeled as neutral, mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about which switch best suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the Jwick Splash Brothers both feature polycarbonate top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows for a more clear and resonant sound, creating a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Ash Gray and the Splash Brothers utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. When typing on switches that use nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a more satisfying and immersive typing experience. Both switches benefit from the acoustic qualities of nylon, ensuring that the sound produced is pleasing to the user.
Although the top and bottom housings differ between the Ash Gray and the Splash Brothers, the overall sound characteristics are still influenced by each housing material. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the difference in housing materials between the two switches influences the overall typing experience, providing users with a diverse range of sound profiles to choose from based on their preferences. Whether it is the sharpness and crispness of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer unique typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are both similarities and differences to consider. Starting with the actuation force, the Ash Gray requires 38 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the specific value for the Splash Brothers is unavailable. However, it is safe to assume that the unknown actuation force of the Splash Brothers is in the range of being light, as its bottom out force is measured at 48 grams, which is lighter than the Ash Gray's bottom out force of 53 grams.
In terms of the weight of the switches, the Ash Gray can be considered medium-light due to its actuation and bottom out forces falling into that range. This lighter weight could be advantageous for individuals who prefer a keyboard that allows them to type for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. It could also be suitable for extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers, being lighter in terms of bottom out force, offers a similarly light typing experience. This would also be beneficial for those who enjoy a lighter touch while typing.
While the specific actuation force of the Splash Brothers is unknown, it can be assumed that it is comparable to the Ash Gray in terms of being light. When it comes to the bottom out force, both switches offer a relatively similar experience, with the Ash Gray being slightly heavier at 53 grams compared to the Splash Brothers at 48 grams. Overall, the Ash Gray provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch depends on an individual's preference for the force required for keystrokes. If lighter actuation and bottom out forces are desired, the Splash Brothers would be the suitable choice. However, for those who enjoy a somewhat stronger push feel, the Ash Gray would provide a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that when you press down on the keys, you will experience the same amount of travel for both switches. This can provide a consistent and familiar typing experience regardless of which switch you choose to use. So, whether you opt for the Ash Gray or the Splash Brothers, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from top to bottom.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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
In terms of sound, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you are using the switches at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Ash Gray switch offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is described as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Overall, the Ash Gray switch offers a responsive and low-impact typing feel.
On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. It is also mentioned to have a snappy and bouncy feel, providing super responsiveness and a lively feedback sensation. The Jwick Splash Brothers switch is also described as having a subtle typing feel with a gentle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces. Additionally, it is mentioned to have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch have similar qualities in terms of sound and offer a neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the Ash Gray switch provides an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, while the Jwick Splash Brothers switch offers a mild, snappy, bouncy, and polished feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, both switches can deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a light touch with a crisp actuation, the Ash Gray tactile switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming, and its easy-to-press and mild characteristics make typing effortless and comfortable. Moreover, its sound profile is neutral, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a great typing feel, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is worth considering. Its shorter activation combined with a long pole stem provides a unique typing experience, and its mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished characteristics contribute to its overall appeal. Just like the Ash Gray, the Splash Brothers also has a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire.
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