Huano Grape Orange vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Huano Grape Orange and the Jwick Splash Brothers, both of which are linear switches offering unique characteristics suited to different typing preferences. The Grape Orange is renowned for its exceptionally light 40g actuation force, providing a smooth and effortless feel that makes it ideal for extended typing sessions. This switch is perfect for users who prioritize comfort and speed in their everyday tasks. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers cater to those who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience. Their shorter activation point combined with a long pole stem enhances responsiveness, while a creamy sound profile adds a layer of satisfaction to each keystroke. Each switch has its distinct appeal—whether you prefer the Grape Orange’s lightness for long sessions or the Snappy and Polished feel of the Splash Brothers aimed at speed enthusiasts. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Huano Grape Orange and the Jwick Splash Brothers are strikingly similar, as both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings and nylon for their bottom housings. This uniformity in materials leads to a comparable audio and tactile experience when typing on either switch. The polycarbonate top housing grants a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant auditory feedback which is beneficial in environments where auditory cues are essential. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects to shine through, adding an aesthetic value especially favored among gamers and typists alike.
In contrast, the nylon bottom housing contributes a distinct characteristic—one that is rooted in its softer material composition. This component of the switch absorbs sound more effectively than the stiffer polycarbonate, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile that differs somewhat from the sharper tonal qualities produced by the top housing. Both switches derive their auditory experience from the combination of these materials; while the polycarbonate top influences the sound upon key release, the nylon bottom shapes the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel under pressing force. This dual contribution creates a balanced auditory experience, where each material plays a vital role in defining the overall typing sensation.
Ultimately, even with the same materials, the Grape Orange and Splash Brothers will yield similar results in terms of sound and tactile feedback, due to their shared top and bottom housing compositions. The interplay of the polycarbonate and nylon—each offering their respective sound qualities—forms a cohesive auditory experience that is both sharp and full. Thus, users can expect a consistent typing experience across both switch types, complemented by aesthetically pleasing RGB compatibility, ensuring that either choice will satisfy both functional and visual preferences.
Weight
The Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch both offer a lightweight typing experience, but they differ slightly in their specifications. The Grape Orange has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it feel relatively light and easy to press for extended typing sessions or long gaming stretches. In comparison, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch presents an actuation force that remains unspecified but features a bottom out force of 48 grams. Since the actuation force for the Splash Brothers is unknown, we cannot establish a direct comparison for that metric; however, we can note that its bottom out force is slightly lower than that of the Grape Orange. Consequently, while the Grape Orange has a defined actuation force and a slightly higher bottom out force, the Splash Brothers is designed to deliver a similarly light overall feel, which may appeal to those favoring a lighter switch. Overall, the Grape Orange is the heavier of the two when considering the known metrics, particularly for its actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, we find that the Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Splash Brothers measures slightly shorter at 3.5 mm. This one-millimeter difference makes the Grape Orange the longer of the two switches, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers, with its shorter travel distance, may offer quicker responsiveness for gamers seeking faster actuation. Both switches provide a modern approach to travel distances, aligning with the trend toward shorter distances for enhanced speed, yet they cater to different user preferences regarding tactile feedback and actuation depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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
When it comes to sound, the Huano Grape Orange switch is characterized by its understated acoustic profile, which tends to lean towards a subdued, pleasant timbre that doesn’t intrude, making it well-suited for quiet environments. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a more neutral sound signature, striking a balance that caters to a variety of usage scenarios. While the Grape Orange provides a more muted sound experience, the Splash Brothers can be seen as a versatile alternative that remains unobtrusive in both home and office settings, giving users flexibility depending on their environment.
In terms of feel, the Grape Orange excels with an ultra-light actuation force of just 40g, delivering an effortless typing experience designed for extensive usage without fatigue. It offers a smooth and linear response that is quite enjoyable and forgiving for typists. Meanwhile, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches introduce a more dynamic feel, showcasing a combination of qualities including mild, snappy, and bouncy characteristics. This variety makes the typing sensation more lively and responsive, while still maintaining a seamless overall experience with a polished finish. While the two switches may differ in actuation force and tactile responsiveness, both promote a comfortable typing experience that can cater to different preferences.
In summary, the Huano Grape Orange and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches cater to distinct, yet appealing sensory experiences. The Grape Orange leans towards a lighter and more subdued acoustic profile, making it ideal for quiet settings and long typing sessions. In contrast, the Splash Brothers offer a neutral sound with a more engaging and lively feel, thanks to their dynamic characteristics. Ultimately, both switches provide enjoyable typing experiences, making them excellent choices depending on one's personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, especially for long hours of use, the Grape Orange is an excellent choice with its ultra-low actuation force of 40 grams and a smooth experience that reduces fatigue. This switch will be particularly beneficial if you prefer quieter operations and a more subdued sound profile, making it perfect for office environments or shared spaces. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly snappier feel combined with a delightful, creamy sound, the Splash Brothers would be more suitable for you. With a similar low bottom-out force of 48 grams, they also offer a responsive typing experience that’s both lively and polished, thanks to their longer pole stem and shorter actuation. These switches excel in gaming or fast-paced typing scenarios where quick response times are essential. In summary, your choice hinges on whether you seek a gentle, fatigue-free experience or a lively, engaging feel in your keyboard.
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