TTC Iron vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Iron and Jwick Splash Brothers both offer unique features worth noting. The TTC Iron boasts a pronounced clacky sound signature with swift actuation and buttery smooth travel, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy precise and satisfying keystrokes. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers are known for their shorter activation and long pole stem, providing a great typing feel and creamy sound signature. Both switches have their own strengths, with the Iron being more 'clacky' and 'easy-to-press' while the Splash Brothers are described as 'snappy' and 'bouncy'. 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
41g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Iron and Jwick Splash Brothers switches offer distinct acoustic characteristics. The POM top housing of the Iron provides a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Splash Brothers produces a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Splash Brothers creates a fuller and rounder sound profile compared to the POM bottom housing of the Iron.
Despite their differences, both the Iron and Splash Brothers switches prioritize sound quality in unique ways. The POM and polycarbonate top housings of the Iron and Splash Brothers, respectively, cater to different preferences for sound pitch and clarity. The choice between a softer nylon bottom housing for the Splash Brothers and a deeper POM bottom housing for the Iron hinges on personal preference for typing feel. While the materials may differ, the overall goal of enhancing sound and typing experience remains consistent across both switch models.
The splitting of housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches allows for a nuanced typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is complemented by the top housing's influence on the sound when a key is released. This design choice ensures that users can enjoy a well-rounded acoustic experience with each keystroke, regardless of whether they opt for the Iron's POM housing or the Splash Brothers' nylon and polycarbonate housing combination. Ultimately, the housing materials of both switches contribute to a unique and satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Iron linear switch to the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is clear that the Iron is the lighter option in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Iron has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Splash Brothers has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. Both switches are on the lighter side, with the Iron being slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Iron may be the better choice. However, for those who like a bit more resistance and a stronger push feel, the Splash Brothers may provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, the Iron has a travel distance of 3.8 mm while the Splash Brothers has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Splash Brothers has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Iron. Shorter travel distances are often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances can provide a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for more responsive typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the specific feel desired during typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 TTC Iron linear switch is well-known for its clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound with each press. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a creamy and neutral sound profile. Both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience in terms of sound, with the Iron being more pronounced and percussive, while the Splash Brothers provide a smoother and more neutral sound.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is recognized for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and light actuation force for effortless typing. It falls in the mild category, providing a low-impact typing feel. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. It also features a snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished feel, giving a more dynamic typing experience compared to the Iron's more straightforward response.
Overall, both the TTC Iron linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Iron switch provides a clacky and easy-to-press experience, the Splash Brothers switch offers a creamy and neutral sound signature with a variety of feel options. Depending on personal preferences, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Iron leaning towards a sharper sound and easier actuation, and the Splash Brothers offering a smoother and more dynamic feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the TTC Iron linear switch or the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a pronounced clacky sound and buttery smooth travel, the TTC Iron may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a shorter activation and a creamy sound signature, the Jwick Splash Brothers could be the perfect fit for your typing needs. Both switches offer a light bottom out force and a satisfying typing experience, so it ultimately depends on which characteristics align best with your preferences and requirements. Trust your instincts and go with the switch that resonates most with you.
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