Bsun Pine vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the BSUN Pine, a tactile switch, and the Jwick Splash Brothers, a linear switch. The BSUN Pine switches are loved for their sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers offer a unique blend of a shorter activation paired with a long pole stem, resulting in a smooth and polished typing feel with a creamy sound signature. The Pine switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Snappy', while the Splash Brothers switch falls under 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', 'Subtle', 'Polished'. Both switches have their own merits depending on individual preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Jwick Splash Brothers, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Polycarbonate's translucency also makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. On the other hand, while both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, typing on nylon-based switches typically produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Despite the similarities in housing materials between the Bsun Pine and the Jwick Splash Brothers, the distribution of these materials in the switches can lead to different typing experiences. With different housing materials for the top and bottom, the qualities of each material are divided between the two parts of the switch. This means that the bottom housing, in this case made of nylon, will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Conversely, the top housing, constructed from polycarbonate, will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. This split in housing materials can result in a unique typing sensation for each switch.
Overall, both the Bsun Pine and the Jwick Splash Brothers benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housing to create a sharp and resonant sound profile. However, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches provides a deeper and fuller typing experience due to its sound-absorbing properties. While the materials may be the same for both switches, the way in which they are utilized in the top and bottom housing components can lead to subtle differences in sound and tactile feedback during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for the specific typing experience that each housing material combination offers.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is clear that the Pine has a heavier feel compared to the lighter Splash Brothers. The Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers has a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams, with the actuation force being unknown. The Pine provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers offers a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, whereas the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Pine is just a bit shorter than the Splash Brothers. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Pine due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may find the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Splash Brothers more satisfying. However, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, so users can expect comparable results from either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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 Pine switches offer a sharp and distinctive typing experience with a loud and crisp click sound, making them ideal for those who enjoy a more audible typing feedback. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches provide a creamy sound signature, which indicates a smoother and more muted sound profile that may be preferred by those looking for a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, so the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and environment.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Pine switches are characterized by their sharp and invigorating tactile bump, providing a highly tactile and responsive typing experience that is both snappy and engaging. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches offer a milder and bouncier typing feel, with a smoother actuation and a more elastic feedback sensation. The Splash Brothers switches also have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. Both switches offer distinct typing feels that cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a more tactile and responsive switch or a smoother and bouncier typing experience.
In conclusion, the BSUN Pine switches stand out for their sharp tactile feedback and quick bottom-out, making them a favorite for those who prefer a more direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches offer a smoother and more muted sound profile, along with a milder and bouncier typing feel that may appeal to those looking for a more gentle and elastic typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharp tactile bump or a creamy sound signature, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience based on your individual preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump with fast action and clear feedback, the Pine switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force with a creamy sound signature and a smooth typing feel, the Splash Brothers switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
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