Durock Light Tactile vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, two options worth considering are the Durock Light Tactile and the Jwick Splash Brothers. The Light Tactile switch from Durock offers a unique experience with its gentle tactility, providing a delightful contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on these switches feels angelic, and the jelly-like sound signature adds to the overall experience. Categorized as "Neutral," "Mild," and "Polished," the Light Tactile switch is a solid choice for those who appreciate a more subdued tactile feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers brings a different flavor to the table. These linear "speed" switches excel with their shorter activation and long pole stem, resulting in a satisfying typing feel. Additionally, the creamy sound signature adds another layer of enjoyment. Categorized as "Neutral," "Mild," "Snappy," "Bouncy," "Subtle," and "Polished," the Splash Brothers provide a versatile option for those seeking a smooth and responsive typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and the Jwick Splash Brothers both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a precise typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for optimal RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the keyboard. In terms of sound and aesthetics, users can expect similar results from both switches due to their identical polycarbonate top housings.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Light Tactile and the Splash Brothers utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Unlike the stiffer polycarbonate, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. When typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, users can expect a more muffled and cushioned typing experience. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar bottom-out sound and feel due to their shared nylon bottom housing material.
It's important to note that the qualities brought by the different housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switches. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed. The nylon bottom housing of both the Light Tactile and the Splash Brothers contributes to a deep and impactful typing sensation. On the other hand, the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. In this case, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches enhances the sharp and crisp sound when a key is let go.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Light Tactile switch has an actuation force of 52 grams, indicating the amount of force required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Splash Brothers switch is unavailable, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. However, the Light Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which suggests a medium-heavy resistance when pressing all the way down. In comparison, the Splash Brothers switch has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is relatively lighter.
Considering weight, it is important to note that some individuals prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it allows for less fatigue over time. For these users, the Splash Brothers switch may be a suitable choice due to its lighter bottom out force. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, for whom a switch with heavier forces would be ideal. In this case, the Light Tactile switch, with its medium-heavy bottom out force, would provide a satisfying typing experience.
While the actuation force of the Splash Brothers switch is unknown, if it is similar to the Light Tactile switch's 52 grams, users can expect a comparable force required to trigger the keystroke. However, it is important to note that the bottom out force is still lighter in the Splash Brothers switch, which may provide a different typing experience compared to the Light Tactile switch. Overall, individuals seeking a lighter switch may opt for the Splash Brothers, while those desiring a heavier resistance may find the Light Tactile switch more suitable.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Light Tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance than the Splash Brothers switch. The Light Tactile switch's 4 mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, while the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Splash Brothers switch is considered on the shorter side. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. If you are looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience, the Splash Brothers with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys, the Light Tactile switch with its longer travel distance may be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference and what type of typing or gaming experience is desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Light Tactile switch is known for its gentle and jelly-like sound signature. It offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. Similarly, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch also offers a neutral sound profile. Both switches can provide a moderate sound experience depending on other factors like the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. It offers a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users, along with reduced friction and smooth key travel due to its polished finish. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch offers a mild and snappy feel. It is super responsive, thanks to longer or dual-staged springs, which adds a vibrant touch to the typing experience. It also has a bouncy and subtle feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a slight resistance. Like the Light Tactile, it also features a polished finish for smooth typing.
In conclusion, both the Durock Light Tactile and Jwick Splash Brothers switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Tactile provides an angelic and jelly-like sound signature, along with a gentle typing experience and a polished finish. The Splash Brothers, on the other hand, provide a creamy sound signature and a typing feel that is snappy, bouncy, and subtle, with a similar polished finish. While they have some differences, both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and can be suitable for various uses, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use them at home or work. Overall, both switches provide excellent options for those seeking tactile or linear switches, respectively.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a gentle and jelly-like tactility, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a great choice. It offers a moderate bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. The Light Tactile switch is known for its angelic tactility and jelly-like sound signature, providing a unique typing experience. Additionally, it has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments. In terms of feel, the Light Tactile switch is described as mild and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and linear switches, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch would be a good option. It has a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it light and responsive. The Splash Brothers switch is praised for its shorter activation combined with its long pole stem, offering a great typing feel. It also provides a creamy sound signature. Similar to the Light Tactile switch, the Splash Brothers switch has a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for different use cases.
Ultimately, your choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the Jwick Splash Brothers will depend on your personal preference for tactility and bottom out force. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired feel when deciding which switch is the best fit for you.
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