Outemu Crystal vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal 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 are the Outemu Crystal and the Jwick Splash Brothers, both of which are linear switches. The Outemu Crystal switches offer a unique typing experience with their elastic feel and medium-light weight. These switches provide a neutral sound profile, making them a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches are known for their "speed" and shorter activation. With a long pole stem, these switches offer a satisfying typing feel. Additionally, they have a creamy sound signature that adds a touch of luxury to your typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches have some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal from both the Crystal and Splash Brothers switches when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing.
However, the bottom housing of the two switches differs. While the Crystal still employs polycarbonate, the Splash Brothers features a nylon bottom housing. The use of nylon in the Splash Brothers switch results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. So, if users prefer a deeper and fuller sound when typing, the Splash Brothers switch with its nylon bottom housing would be a better choice.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and Jwick Splash Brothers switches offer distinct qualities for users to consider. The polycarbonate top housing will deliver a clear and resonant sound, making it a good option for those who value a crisp sound profile and use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Splash Brothers switch provides a deeper and fuller sound experience, appealing to users who prefer a more mellow and rounded sound. Regardless of the differences, users can expect satisfying results from both switches, with each housing material offering unique characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Crystal has an actuation force of 45 grams, which means it requires a relatively light touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Splash Brothers is unavailable, so it is difficult to directly compare. However, the bottom out force of the Crystal is 55 grams, slightly heavier than the 48 grams required by the Splash Brothers. This suggests that the Crystal provides a slightly more substantial typing experience when fully depressing the keys.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch like the Splash Brothers, as it allows for longer typing periods without causing fatigue. This is particularly advantageous for those who use their keyboards for work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who desire a stronger push feel may opt for the Crystal or a switch with a heavier actuation force. This can provide a more satisfying and substantial typing experience for users who prefer a bit more resistance.
However, since the actuation force of the Splash Brothers is unknown, it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the two switches. Nevertheless, based on the provided information, it can be inferred that the Crystal has a lighter actuation force and a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Splash Brothers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is 3.5 mm. This makes the Crystal switch longer in travel distance compared to the Splash Brothers switch. The Crystal switch offers a more traditional travel distance of 4 mm, providing a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, which can be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. Choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference - if you prioritize responsiveness, the Splash Brothers switch with its shorter travel distance is a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial key press feel, the Crystal switch with its longer travel distance would be more suitable. Either way, both switches provide a satisfactory travel distance for typing or gaming purposes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49.
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 Outemu Crystal switches have a neutral profile, meaning that they produce a moderate sound when pressed. This makes them suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches have a creamy sound signature. This indicates a smoother and softer sound when typing.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Crystal switches have a unique, elastic feel while also being medium-light in weight. This combination results in a linear typing experience that is fairly elastic. Additionally, these switches are described as polished, meaning they have a smooth and refined finish. This leads to reduced friction and a sleek typing experience with smooth key travel.
In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches are described as mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. They offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The longer pole stem and shorter activation of these switches contribute to a great typing feel that is snappy and responsive. The bouncy feedback provided by the switches adds a spring-like sensation to the keys, giving them a lively feel. Overall, the sound and feel of the Jwick Splash Brothers switches are approachable to most users and stand in a safe, middle-ground zone.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal linear switches and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switches provide a neutral sound profile and a unique, elastic typing experience. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches have a creamy sound signature and offer a mild yet snappy and responsive typing experience. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired. However, it is worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a unique, medium-light linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, then the Outemu Crystal switches are the way to go. These switches have a fairly elastic feel and offer a smooth and refined typing experience due to a polished finish. They have a bottom out force of 55 grams, making them suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier switch.
On the other hand, if you want a light linear switch with a creamy sound signature, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches are the perfect choice. These switches have a bottom out force of 48 grams and offer a mild typing experience, making them approachable to most users. Additionally, their longer pole stem and shorter activation provide a great typing feel, while their snappy and bouncy characteristics enhance the overall responsiveness.
Ultimately, the decision between Outemu Crystal and Jwick Splash Brothers switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a polished feel and neutral sound, go for the Crystal. If you prefer a lighter switch with a creamy sound and mild, snappy, and bouncy characteristics, opt for the Splash Brothers. Whatever you choose, both switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences that will enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
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