Durock Medium Tactile vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options on the market are the Durock Medium Tactile and the Jwick Splash Brothers. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Durock Medium Tactile is best known for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, providing a satisfying tactile feedback with a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers are linear switches that boast a shorter activation combined with a long pole stem, resulting in a great typing feel. These switches offer a creamy sound signature. While these general descriptions give us a glimpse into the key features of each switch, it is important to explore their nuances and specific attributes to determine the best fit for your keyboard needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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 housing materials used in the Durock Medium Tactile and the Jwick Splash Brothers have several similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in both switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
However, while the top housing material in both switches is polycarbonate, it is important to note that they may have slight variations in terms of sound and feel. Although they share similar characteristics, such as a higher-pitched sound profile, the exact composition and design of the top housing may vary slightly between the two switches. Additionally, the bottom housing material, nylon, plays a role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Therefore, even with the same housing materials, there may be subtle differences in sound and tactile feedback between the two switches.
Overall, both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Jwick Splash Brothers utilize polycarbonate and nylon housing materials to enhance the sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches. The polycarbonate top housing ensures a clearer and resonant sound, while also allowing for visually appealing RGB lighting effects. The nylon bottom housing adds depth and fuller sound, contributing to a more rounded and duller tone. Despite potential differences in the exact composition and design, both switches offer similar results in terms of improved acoustics and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of both switches is unknown, so it is difficult to compare them in this aspect. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Medium Tactile switch requires 65 grams of force, making it medium-heavy, while the Splash Brothers switch only requires 48 grams, indicating a lighter touch.
Considering weight is important for various reasons. Individuals who prefer a lighter switch may find it beneficial as it allows for longer typing periods, which is particularly useful for those who bring their keyboard to work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals enjoy a stronger push feel to enhance their typing experience, and for them, options with heavier forces would be more suitable.
In conclusion, although the actuation force of both switches is unknown, it can be determined that the Durock Medium Tactile switch has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Jwick Splash Brothers switch, which has a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams. Depending on individual preferences and use cases, these differences in force may impact the typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which is considered a more traditional option. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. For gamers or individuals who prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Splash Brothers switch may be preferable. This allows for quicker key presses and potentially improved gaming performance. However, those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key may lean towards the Durock Medium Tactile switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences and priorities in terms of key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium 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 Medium 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 Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature. Its sound profile is not further described in the available information. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is described as having a creamy sound signature. This suggests that it produces a smooth and pleasant sound during typing. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. While the specific sound qualities of the Medium Tactile switch are unknown, the creamy sound signature of the Splash Brothers switch implies a similar level of satisfaction in terms of sound.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as an accented switch with a medium level of tactility. It provides a pronounced yet balanced tactile experience, which is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it is mentioned that the switch has a stepped feel, meaning it incorporates stages of pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke. The Medium Tactile switch also falls under the category of mild switches, which offer a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. Furthermore, the mention of a polished finish suggests that the switch provides a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Contrastingly, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is described as a mild switch, offering a gentle typing experience. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of its characteristics. The switch is mentioned to be snappy, indicating a high level of responsiveness during typing. It also has a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation to the user. Similar to the Medium Tactile switch, the Splash Brothers switch is described as having a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the Durock Medium Tactile switch stands out for its pronounced yet balanced tactility and stepped feel. It is accented and falls into the mild category, providing a more gentle typing experience. The Jelly-like sound signature adds a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch excels in being mild and snappy, offering a gentle yet responsive typing feel. Its bouncy feedback sensation adds to the overall typing experience. Both switches share the quality of having a polished finish, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, while the specific sound qualities of the Medium Tactile switch are unknown, it is reasonable to expect a similar level of satisfaction in terms of sound when compared to the creamy sound signature of the Splash Brothers switch.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a balanced tactility, the Durock Medium Tactile would be a great choice for you. It offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience without being overwhelming. Additionally, it has a jelly-like sound signature, which adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth linear switch, the Jwick Splash Brothers would be a suitable option. These linear switches have a bottom out force of 48 grams, making them light and easy to activate. They also have a creamy sound signature. Overall, both switches have their unique features and characteristics, so consider your personal preferences and typing style when making a decision.
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