KTT Mint vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are numerous options available, each offering its own unique benefits. Two popular choices are the KTT Mint and the Jwick Splash Brothers, both of which are linear switches. The Mint is renowned for its satisfyingly smooth feel and long pole stem, resulting in a poppy thockiness and a lightweight typing experience. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Mint switch offers a sublime typing sensation. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers are akin to the dynamic duo of Steph and Klay, known for their speed and precision. These linear speed switches possess a shorter activation combined with a long pole stem, delivering a fantastic typing feel. Additionally, they offer a creamy sound signature. Categorized as neutral, mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished, the Splash Brothers provide a diverse range of qualities. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mint and Jwick Splash Brothers both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This material brings several advantages to the switches, including a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a distinct audio feedback while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Therefore, both the Mint and Splash Brothers switches will result in similar sound profiles and visual effects due to the shared use of polycarbonate for their top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the KTT Mint and Jwick Splash Brothers rely on nylon as their chosen material. Nylon has long been favored in switch housings due to its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This can be preferred by individuals who prefer a quieter typing experience or are looking for switches with a more muted sound profile. Therefore, regardless of the switch brand, the utilization of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound.
It is important to note that when a switch utilizes different housing materials for the top and bottom, the characteristics of each material are divided between the two parts of the switch. While pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, such as its impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, will be more prominent. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the Mint and Splash Brothers switches, despite their similarities in housing materials, may offer slightly different tactile and auditory experiences based on the allocation of these materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Mint has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light touch to trigger keystrokes. In contrast, the actuation force of the Splash Brothers is unknown, leaving us without direct comparison. However, the bottom out force of the Mint is 53 grams, slightly heavier than the 48 grams of the Splash Brothers.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Mint more suitable as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Splash Brothers. Although we do not have the exact actuation force for the Splash Brothers switch, its lighter bottom out force suggests a softer overall typing feel compared to the Mint.
In summary, while the Mint has a known actuation force and bottom out force, the actuation force of the Splash Brothers remains unknown. However, based on the available information, the Mint appears to be slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a lighter touch or a more forceful typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Mint is considered a more traditional length, while the 3.5 mm distance of the Splash Brothers is slightly shallower. The shorter travel distance of the Splash Brothers may be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Splash Brothers to feel too abrupt, and may prefer the more hearty depth provided by the 4.0 mm travel distance of the Mint. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, 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, both the KTT Mint and the Jwick Splash Brothers are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate pitch and are suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use them at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps you choose. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of sound from both switches.
In terms of feel, both the Mint and the Splash Brothers are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a more gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of these switches will be approachable to most users, as their qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, which indicates a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This is achieved through the use of high-quality materials and/or factory lubing, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, both the KTT Mint and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches offer satisfyingly smooth linear typing experiences. While the Mint is known for its poppy thockiness and fleeting type feel, the Splash Brothers are likened to the dynamic duo of Steph and Klay, with their shorter activation and great typing feel. In terms of sound, both switches have a neutral profile, making them suitable for a variety of users and settings. The feel of both switches is described as mild and polished, ensuring a gentle and sleek typing experience. Overall, whether you choose the Mint or the Splash Brothers, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, making them both excellent choices for a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a satisfyingly smooth and poppy typing experience with a light and fleeting feel, the KTT Mint linear switches are the way to go. These switches have a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is medium-light. They offer a mild and polished feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In terms of sound, they have a low-pitched and neutral profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for most intents and purposes.
On the other hand, if you want something special with a great typing feel, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches are the perfect choice. With a bottom out force of 48 grams, these switches are considered light. They offer a mild and snappy typing experience, with super responsiveness and a spring-like bounce. Similar to the Mint, the Splash Brothers switches also have a polished feel, ensuring smooth key travel. In terms of sound, they have a neutral profile, suitable for various environments.
Ultimately, the choice between the Mint and Splash Brothers switches depends on your preference for the typing experience. If you value a poppy and smooth feel, go for the Mint. If you prefer a snappy and bouncy typing experience, the Splash Brothers are the way to go. Consider your desired sound profile and actuation force as well when making your decision.
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