KTT Lightning vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Lightning and Jwick Splash Brothers both fall under the category of linear switches. The KTT Lightnings are highly regarded for their "speed" capabilities, making them the ideal choice for those seeking fast and precise keystrokes. With their clacky sound profile and slick type feel, these switches provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches offer their own unique advantages. Inspired by the dynamic duo Steph and Klay, these linear switches boast a shorter activation and a long pole stem, resulting in a fantastic typing feel. Additionally, they produce a creamy sound signature that adds to the overall experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Jwick Splash Brothers keyboards have some similarities and differences. Both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both keyboards benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making it advantageous for RGB lighting effects. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either keyboard's polycarbonate top housing.
However, the keyboards differ in their bottom housing material. The Lightning features a nylon bottom housing, while the Splash Brothers also have a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its softer nature, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, the typing experience on switches that use nylon in their bottom housing will differ slightly between the Lightning and the Splash Brothers.
One important factor to consider is that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in the overall sound and feel. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the top housings of both keyboards are the same, the difference in bottom housing materials may contribute to a slight variation in the overall typing experience. Nonetheless, users can still expect a solid performance from both keyboards in terms of acoustics and responsiveness.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it becomes clear that both switches offer a relatively light typing experience. The Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Splash Brothers switch has an unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Lightning requires 50 grams of force compared to the Splash Brothers' 48 grams. This slight difference suggests that bottoming out on the Splash Brothers switch may feel slightly lighter than on the Lightning switch.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Lightning, as this allows for longer typing periods without straining their fingers. This characteristic makes it suitable for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users may prefer the feeling of a stronger push, offering a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, switches with heavier forces would be a better fit. While both switches mentioned here lean towards the lighter side, the slight difference in bottom out force indicates that the Lightning switch may offer a slightly firmer feel compared to the Splash Brothers switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is clear that they have slight differences. The Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Splash Brothers has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both travel distances fall within the range of shorter distances, which is favored by gamers for faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Lightning switch with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Splash Brothers switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41, whereas the Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49.
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 KTT Lightning linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile. This means that when the switch is pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the Lightning switch is also described as high-pitched, which adds to its distinct sound profile. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes. Overall, if you're looking for a switch with a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Lightning switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a more neutral sound, the Splash Brothers switch would be a better option.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Lightning switch is described as having a subtle and polished feel. This means that it has a gentle resistance which is not too soft but still maintains a light typing feel. Additionally, the Lightning switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is described as having a mild and snappy feel. This means that it offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Splash Brothers switch is also super responsive, giving it a more lively typing experience. Moreover, it has a bouncy and subtle feel that provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation and maintains a light typing feel suitable for shared spaces. If you prefer a switch with a subtle and polished feel, the Lightning switch would be a good fit. However, if you prefer a milder and snappier feel, the Splash Brothers switch would be a better choice.
In conclusion, the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lightning switch has a clacky sound profile and a subtle and polished feel, while the Splash Brothers switch has a neutral sound profile and a mild and snappy feel. If you prefer a high-pitched, clacky sound and a subtle, polished feel, the Lightning switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound and a milder, snappier feel, the Splash Brothers switch would be more appropriate. It's important to note that the sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Therefore, if you are looking to achieve a similar sound or feel with different switches, it is recommended to consider these other factors as well.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it ultimately depends on your priorities and preferences. The Lightning switches are perfect for situations where milliseconds can make a difference, such as in gaming, thanks to their approachable "speed" characteristics. They offer a light bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches also excel in delivering a smooth typing experience. With a slightly lighter bottom out force of 48 grams, they boast a creamy sound signature that is appealing to many users. These switches can be considered neutral in terms of both their sound and feel, making them suitable for various purposes and skill levels. Ultimately, it's important to consider the specific demands of your keyboard usage to make the best choice between the Lightning and Splash Brothers switches.
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