TTC Gold Brown vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Gold Brown and the Jwick Splash Brothers are both popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and advantages. The Gold Brown switches are best known for their balanced nature, providing a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness. They offer a rounded sound profile that is softer compared to most switches, without being completely silent. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches are known for their "speed" and linear feel. With a shorter activation and a long pole stem, these switches offer a great typing experience. They also produce a creamy sound signature. While these general descriptions give you a sense of what each switch offers, it is important to dive deeper into the specifics in order to determine the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown and the Jwick Splash Brothers both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Due to polycarbonate's translucency, it is particularly beneficial in the top housing if RGB lighting is planned to be used. Overall, the sound profile and aesthetic impact of the polycarbonate top housing would be similar for both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a difference between the TTC Gold Brown and the Jwick Splash Brothers. The Gold Brown features a nylon bottom housing, whereas the Splash Brothers also use polycarbonate for the bottom housing. Nylon is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing would contribute to a different sound experience, potentially producing a sharper and crisper sound compared to nylon.
When typing on either switch, the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the bottom and the top. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, which means that the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Brown would elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when keys are pressed. Meanwhile, the sound when keys are released would be more influenced by the polycarbonate top housing. Therefore, the switches can still offer similar results in terms of the overall sound profile, but with a slight distinction in the bottom-out sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch to the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are some notable differences in terms of their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Brown has a medium actuation force of 55 grams, while the exact actuation force of the Splash Brothers is unavailable. However, the bottom out force of the Gold Brown is slightly heavier at 63 grams compared to the lighter 48 grams of the Splash Brothers.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Jwick Splash Brothers would be a suitable choice due to its lower bottom out force. This lighter force allows for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown offers a more substantial typing experience with a slightly higher bottom out force. This can provide a stronger push feel for those who prefer a more tactile feedback while typing.
Considering weight is another factor that comes into play when choosing between these switches. Some individuals may prefer a lighter switch, such as the Splash Brothers, as it enables them to type for extended periods without straining their fingers. This makes it particularly suitable for use in work or gaming scenarios that involve long sessions. Conversely, those who appreciate a heavier switch for a more satisfying typing experience can opt for the Gold Brown, which provides a greater actuation and bottom out force.
In summary, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Brown offers a medium actuation force and a slightly heavier bottom out force, while the exact actuation force of the Splash Brothers is unknown and it has a lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference, with lighter switches favored for prolonged typing and heavier switches favored for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Splash Brothers has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. 4.0 mm is the most traditional travel distance, providing a comfortable depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Splash Brothers offers a slightly shallower experience, which can be appealing to gamers looking for faster response times. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances may feel too abrupt for some individuals, so those who prefer a more hearty depth may opt for the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Gold Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for responsiveness and feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning they have a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Therefore, while they both have a similar sound profile, the overall sound experience may vary depending on the specific setup.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown tactile switch is described as having a mild, buttery, accented, and polished feel. This means that it offers a gentle typing experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke. The switch provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation while still maintaining a noticeable level of tactility. Additionally, the switch has a refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Splash Brothers linear switch is described as having a mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished feel. This means that it also offers a gentle typing experience but with a more responsive and lively feel. The longer or dual-staged springs in the switch contribute to a more alive typing experience, and the keys have a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. The switch also has a gentle resistance and a sleek typing experience due to its polished finish.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both have a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, and they both provide a gentle typing experience. However, the Gold Brown switch has a slightly more prominent level of tactility and a smoother keystroke due to its buttery and accented characteristics. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switch has a more responsive and lively feel, with a spring-like feedback sensation. Overall, depending on personal preference and typing style, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a balanced switch with a moderate weightiness and a slight, satisfying bump, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is a great choice. These switches offer a softer sound profile and a typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Gold Brown switches provide a polished and buttery feel, resulting in a smooth and refined keystroke experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a creamy sound signature and a shorter activation, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is worth considering. These switches offer a great typing feel and a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes and settings. With their snappy and bouncy characteristics, the Splash Brothers switches provide a responsive and lively typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as desired weightiness, sound profile, and typing feel when making your decision. Whether you opt for the balanced and satisfying bump of the Gold Brown or the creamy and responsive feel of the Splash Brothers, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
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