HMX Cheese vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Cheese and Jwick Splash Brothers offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The cheese switch is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, accompanied by a satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches are lighter than 90% of all switches, providing a unique typing sensation. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switch, inspired by the dynamic duo of Steph and Klay, boasts a shorter activation and a long pole stem that enhances the typing feel. With a creamy sound signature, these linear speed switches offer a different typing experience. Both switches fall under different categories, with the Cheese being categorized as "speedy", and the Splash Brothers as neutral, mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, polished. Each switch has its own appeal and reasons for consideration based on individual preferences; 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
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
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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-staged spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Jwick Splash Brothers, we can see that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. However, when it comes to the top housing, the Cheese utilizes nylon while the Splash Brothers use polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in materials between the top housings of the two switches can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
On the topic of aesthetics, the use of different materials in the top housings of the Cheese and Splash Brothers switches plays a role in their appearance. The Cheese's nylon top housing maintains a more classic look, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Splash Brothers offers a clear and translucent design. The polycarbonate material is especially advantageous if RGB lighting is a factor, as it allows for a more vibrant and illuminated effect. In contrast, the nylon material of the Cheese may provide a more subdued and traditional appearance. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate for the top housing of a switch can significantly influence the visual appeal of the keyboard.
In terms of performance, the differences between the nylon and polycarbonate top housings of the HMX Cheese and Jwick Splash Brothers switches can affect the typing experience. The softer nature of nylon in the Cheese creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate in the Splash Brothers produces a sharper and more resonant sound. When pressing down on the keys, the bottom housing material (both nylon in this case) plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Cheese and Splash Brothers switches allows for a unique typing experience tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese switch is lighter overall. The HMX Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Splash Brothers has an actuation force of an unknown amount and a bottom out force of 48 grams. Both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, which may be preferable for those who wish to type for extended periods without fatigue. However, the slight difference in bottom out force may give the Splash Brothers a slightly more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them equally responsive in terms of key press feel. This means that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, providing consistent and comfortable typing feedback. Whether you choose the Cheese or the Splash Brothers, you can expect a smooth and reliable typing experience with a travel distance that allows for efficient and accurate typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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, the HMX Cheese linear switch offers a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, making typing on these switches a truly immersive experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch provides a creamy sound profile that is sure to please those looking for a more subtle auditory experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two would depend on whether you prefer a more pronounced or a more subtle sound while typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the HMX Cheese linear switch is best known for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience. Unfortunately, specific descriptors for the feel of the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch are not available. However, based on the information provided, the Splash Brothers switches offer a gentle typing experience with a snappy and bouncy feel, making them responsive and lively to type on. The choice between the two switches would come down to whether you prefer a smooth and polished typing experience or a more lively and responsive feel while typing.
In conclusion, although the HMX Cheese and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, both provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer the satisfying clacky sound of the Cheese switch or the creamy sound of the Splash Brothers switch, both switches offer qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard switch choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, you should consider the weight of the bottom out force. The Cheese has a lighter bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Splash Brothers has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 48 grams. If you prefer a smoother and crispy typing experience with a lighter touch, the Cheese switches would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more responsive typing experience with a creamy sound signature and a slightly higher actuation force, the Splash Brothers switches would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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