Bsun Light Sakura vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two standout options to consider are the Bsun Light Sakura and the Jwick Splash Brothers, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Bsun Light Sakura is celebrated for its silent operation and ultra-light feel, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize comfort and discretion, especially in office environments or shared spaces. Its gentle action provides a fatigue-reducing typing experience that allows for prolonged use without disturbance. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers offer a unique "speed" characteristic with a shorter activation point and a long pole stem that delivers a delightful typing feel. This switch is favored for its creamy sound signature, adding a layer of auditory satisfaction to the typing experience. While both switches have distinct advantages tailored to different needs—whether it's the quiet comfort of the Sakura or the lively responsiveness of the Splash Brothers—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Light Sakura and the Jwick Splash Brothers, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This shared characteristic leads to notably similar acoustic qualities, specifically a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to this effect, allowing for clear and resonant sounds that enhance the overall typing experience. Moreover, the translucence of polycarbonate also makes it an excellent choice for those who wish to utilize RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal that both switch designs can capitalize on. As a result, users of both the Light Sakura and Splash Brothers can expect a visually striking appearance when their keyboards are illuminated.
However, a stark contrast arises when examining the bottom housings of the two switches. The Light Sakura employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, continuing the trend of delivering a bright sound profile. In contrast, the Splash Brothers feature a nylon bottom housing, which imparts a deeper and fuller acoustic experience due to the softer nature of nylon. This difference in materials influences the overall sound and feel of each switch, particularly in terms of the bottom-out sound. While the Light Sakura's bottom housing enhances the sharpness contributed by the top, the Splash Brothers create a more subdued, rounded sound which affects the typing experience in a distinct manner.
The interplay between the different housing materials shapes the acoustic footprint of each switch. For the Light Sakura, the consistent use of polycarbonate across both top and bottom housings creates a seamless sound signature that emphasizes clarity and brightness. Conversely, the combination of a polycarbonate top housing with a nylon bottom in the Splash Brothers results in a hybrid sound profile. Each switch thus offers a unique sensory experience, with the Bsun Light Sakura catering to those who prefer a crisp typing sound, while the Jwick Splash Brothers appeal to users seeking a fuller, richer auditory feedback. Therefore, although both switches share polycarbonate in their design, the variation in their bottom housing materials leads to distinctly different outcomes in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch present a notable contrast in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Light Sakura boasts a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it an attractive option for users who prefer longer typing sessions without excessive strain. In contrast, the Splash Brothers switch has an unknown actuation force but features a bottom out force of 48 grams, which indicates a slightly firmer feel once fully pressed. While the Light Sakura is lighter overall, allowing for a more comfortable experience during prolonged use, the heavier bottom out force of the Splash Brothers might provide that substantial typing feel some users crave. Therefore, for those who favor a lighter touch, the Bsun Light Sakura would be the superior choice, while the Jwick Splash Brothers could appeal to users seeking a more robust keystroke experience despite its unknown actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, the Light Sakura features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Splash Brothers has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that if you are looking for a more responsive feel, the Splash Brothers would be the better option due to its shorter distance, potentially allowing for faster key presses. Conversely, if you prefer a more substantial depth when typing, the Light Sakura's longer travel distance of 3.6 mm may provide a more satisfying experience. Both switches, however, are relatively close in travel distance, and the difference of 0.1 mm may not be significantly noticeable for some users. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you value that extra depth or a quicker response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the two switches, the Bsun Light Sakura is designed to operate silently, making it an excellent choice for environments where discretion is key. This switch prioritizes a muted auditory experience, allowing users to type without disturbing others in shared spaces, such as offices. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers offers a creamy sound signature that is neutral, providing a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various settings, whether at home or work. While both switches possess unique auditory characteristics, the Splash Brothers may register a bit more acoustically, especially due to its design elements that contribute to its sound production.
Shifting focus to the feel of each switch, the Bsun Light Sakura stands out for its ultra-light nature, making it particularly comfortable for long typing sessions. This gentle feel is intended to minimize user fatigue, making it well-suited for individuals who might spend hours on their keyboards. In comparison, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a more dynamic typing experience with its combination of mild, snappy, and bouncy characteristics. This switch engages users with responsive feedback while maintaining an approachable typing feel. Moreover, the polished finish contributes to a smooth key travel that enhances the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both switches cater to different user preferences and environments. The Bsun Light Sakura excels in providing a quiet and fatigue-reducing typing experience, making it ideal for shared or professional settings. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers offers a lively and dynamic feel with a nuanced sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a more engaging typing sensation. While each switch delivers a unique experience, you'll find that both can be suitable based on your specific needs, whether you prioritize silence or an invigorated tactile interaction.
Conclusion
To conclude, when you're deciding between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you value a super-light, comfortable typing experience that excels in quiet environments, the Light Sakura is the ideal choice. Its 43-gram bottom out force is perfect for those long typing sessions where you want to avoid fatigue and maintain discretion, making it a superb option for office settings or shared spaces. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more dynamic typing experience that combines snappiness and responsiveness, the Splash Brothers are the way to go. With its slightly higher bottom out force of 48 grams and creamy sound profile, it offers a lively feel that's great for both gaming and general typing, making it a versatile option for both home and office use. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a super-soft, silent touch or a responsive and enjoyable typing experience.
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