Gateron Mini i vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and Jwick Splash Brothers offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that provides a gentle tactility in each keystroke, making it ideal for office settings where a quiet and comfortable typing experience is preferred. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers is a linear switch known for its shorter activation and great typing feel, perfect for those who enjoy a smooth and polished typing experience. While the Mini i is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Easy-to-press', the Splash Brothers is categorized as 'Snappy' and 'Bouncy', offering users a variety of options to choose from. However, 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and the Jwick Splash Brothers both feature nylon housing materials for their bottom housings, which means that they will both provide a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While the Mini i also utilizes nylon for its top housing, the Splash Brothers switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The difference in top housing material will likely result in a more clear and resonant sound for the Splash Brothers compared to the Mini i.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Jwick Splash Brothers allows for a translucency that is perfect for showcasing RGB lighting. This can create a visually stunning effect when paired with lighting effects, adding an extra level of customization to your keyboard setup. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Gateron Mini i may not offer the same level of visual appeal when it comes to lighting effects, as nylon is not translucent like polycarbonate. However, both switches will still provide a unique sound experience due to their use of different housing materials.
While both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, the impact of these materials on the overall typing experience may vary. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the combination of nylon bottom housing and polycarbonate top housing in the Splash Brothers may provide a more nuanced typing experience compared to the Mini i, which features nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, aesthetics, and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. The Mini i also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Splash Brothers has a bottom out force of 48 grams. Both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. The preference for a lighter or heavier switch ultimately depends on the individual's typing style and personal preference. In this case, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile 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 category of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for gamers looking for faster response times. While the Mini i has a slightly shorter travel distance, the difference of 0.1 mm is minimal and may not be noticeable to the average user. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and whether you prefer a slightly shorter or longer travel distance for your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, 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
In terms of sound, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes whether at home or work. The Mini i offers a fairly muted sound profile that still provides satisfying feedback, while the Splash Brothers is noted for a creamy sound signature. The actual sound produced will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. These qualities combine to provide a gentle and comfortable typing experience with responsive feedback. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch also offers a mild feel, along with being snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant and engaging typing experience, suitable for extended use without causing finger fatigue.
Overall, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch have some differences in terms of sound characteristics, their feel profiles are quite similar being described as mild, snappy, bouncy, and subtle. Both switches offer qualities that enhance the typing experience, with a focus on comfort, responsiveness, and a balanced sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel, as they both offer a high-quality typing experience for users looking for a reliable mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, consider the specific environment and typing experience you desire. If you prioritize a lightweight switch with gentle tactility and a muted sound profile, ideal for quiet professionalism in an office setting, the Gateron Mini i is your go-to choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with shorter activation and a creamy sound signature, offering a great typing feel reminiscent of the dynamic duo Steph and Klay, the Jwick Splash Brothers is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize comfort and subtlety in typing with the Mini i or prefer the responsive and unique feel of the Splash Brothers.
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