Dareu Master vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Master and Jwick Splash Brothers mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Dareu Master switch, with its all-POM composition, strikes a medium weight for users who appreciate a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear "speed" switches boast a shorter activation and long pole stem, providing a great typing feel reminiscent of the dynamic duo Steph and Klay. This switch also offers a creamy sound signature. While the Master switch leans towards a clacky and polished feel, the Splash Brothers switch offers a mix of neutral, mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished attributes. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing habits, but 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Jwick Splash Brothers, we can see a clear difference in the sound profiles they offer. The Master's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, providing a unique and pleasing typing experience. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference is due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate compared to POM, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. If a switch features clear housing for RGB lighting, polycarbonate is the go-to material for its translucency.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the contrast between the Master's POM and the Splash Brothers's nylon is apparent. The POM bottom housing of the Master continues to provide a deep and muted sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Splash Brothers elicits a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller yet more rounded typing experience compared to POM. This difference showcases how the choice of bottom housing material can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
When considering the impact of having different top and bottom housing materials in a switch, it is clear that each material brings distinct qualities to the typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether POM or nylon, will be felt more prominently during key presses, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether POM or polycarbonate, will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. By understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile, keyboard enthusiasts can tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is evident that the Master is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams, while the Splash Brothers is lighter in terms of bottom out force at 48 grams. The Master does not have a specified bottom out force, making it difficult to assess its overall feel in comparison. Weight is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter actuation force can lead to increased typing efficiency and prolonged use, ideal for work or gaming sessions. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, a heavier bottom out force may be preferable. In this case, both switches offer a different balance of force that caters to the individual preferences of users.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. The Dareu Master would be the shorter of the two switches, offering a slightly faster key press experience, while the Jwick Splash Brothers would provide a slightly deeper key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of desired responsiveness and key press depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 Dareu Master linear switch offers a classic clacky sound signature that is crisp and percussive when pressed. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch provides a creamy sound profile that is more neutral and moderate. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Master being more sharp and snappy, while the Splash Brothers lean towards a smoother and softer sound. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches will depend on the user's personal taste and typing environment.
Moving on to the feel, the Dareu Master switch has a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined key press. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch provides a mild, snappy, bouncy, and subtle typing feel that is super responsive and elastic with a light resistance. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Master leans towards a more polished and smooth feel, while the Splash Brothers offer a livelier and more dynamic sensation. Ultimately, the typing feel preference will depend on the user's preferred level of tactility and responsiveness.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Master linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offer different sound and feel profiles, they both cater to users looking for a smooth and linear typing experience. The Master switch provides a classic clacky sound with a mild and polished feel, while the Splash Brothers switch offers a creamy sound with a mild, snappy, bouncy, and subtle feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing dynamics, both switches can deliver a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. If a user enjoys one of these switches, they are likely to find similar results with the other, as they both offer quality linear options with distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a medium-weight linear switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a creamy sound signature, shorter activation, and long pole stem for a great typing feel, then the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is the way to go. Consider your typing preferences, sound preferences, and desired typing experience when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
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