Haimu Orange Sea vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice between the Haimu Orange Sea and the Jwick Splash Brothers offers distinct benefits tailored to different preferences. The Haimu Orange Sea switches are renowned for their impeccably smooth typing feel and neutral sound signature, making them an excellent choice for users who appreciate a seamless experience with little auditory distraction. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches shine with their shorter activation point and long pole stem, providing a dynamic typing experience akin to a sports duo—fast-paced and responsive. Their creamy sound signature further adds to the joy of typing, catering to those who prefer a touch of auditory richness along with significant versatility, characterized as neutral, mild, and polished. Ultimately, while both switches present unique advantages for typists and gamers alike, choosing the right one truly depends on individual preferences for tactile feedback and sound dynamics. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Haimu Orange Sea and the Jwick Splash Brothers, one significant similarity stands out: both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing. This choice of material plays a pivotal role in defining the auditory characteristics of the switches, as polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate as a relatively stiffer plastic resonates well, providing a clear and resonant sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Additionally, its translucency offers aesthetic advantages, making it an ideal choice for users interested in RGB lighting, which will shine compellingly through the clear housing. Thus, both the Orange Sea and the Splash Brothers deliver a similarly elevated sound experience due to their shared top housing material.
On the contrary, the bottom housing materials of both switches offer a stark contrast. The Haimu Orange Sea employs a nylon bottom housing, known for its classic properties that yield a deeper and fuller sound profile. By utilizing nylon, which is a softer plastic, the Orange Sea effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory feedback. This absorption helps to create a unique typing sound experience, particularly during the bottom-out phase of key presses. Meanwhile, the Jwick Splash Brothers also feature nylon for their bottom housing, boasting identical acoustic properties as it too provides that characteristic depth and fullness. Consequently, both switches achieve an enriched sound quality due to their nylon bottom housing, yet the difference in housing types influences how the overall sound is experienced during keystrokes.
Ultimately, the sound profile of each switch is a harmonious blend of its top and bottom housing materials, even when they differ. For both the Haimu Orange Sea and the Jwick Splash Brothers, the impact of the top housing—polycarbonate—creates clearer sounds when the key is released, while the nylon bottom housing ensures that a deeper resonance is felt upon bottoming out. This thoughtful combination ensures each switch communicates its unique auditory character, delivering a well-rounded typing experience for users. Even with their differing bottom housing materials, the fundamental sharpness and clarity of the polycarbonate top ensures that users will find a satisfying auditory feedback in both models.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, notable differences emerge despite both being categorized as light switches. The Orange Sea features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall and ideal for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Splash Brothers switch lacks a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is slightly heavier than that of the Orange Sea. This means that, although both switches can potentially provide a light typing experience, the Orange Sea offers a lighter actuation force, making it better suited for users who prioritize ease during long periods of use. Meanwhile, the Splash Brothers switch may appeal to those seeking a bit more resistance in their keystrokes due to its slightly higher bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Haimu Orange Sea linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This minor difference means that if you're looking for a more responsive experience, the Splash Brothers might be more suitable due to its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate faster keystrokes—an advantage that many gamers appreciate. Conversely, the Orange Sea's travel distance provides a bit more depth, which some users might find preferable for a more substantial feel when typing. Thus, while the Orange Sea is the longer option and the Splash Brothers is the shorter one, both offer advantages depending on personal preference, with the former catering to those who like a deeper press and the latter to those seeking quick responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79, 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 Haimu Orange Sea switches are noted for their neutral sound signature, offering a balanced audio profile that is unobtrusive and suitable for various environments, whether you're at home or at work. This neutrality ensures that they don't stand out too much, making them versatile for different activities like gaming and typing. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches exhibit a creamy sound signature, which hints at a softer and possibly more pleasant auditory experience when typing. Both switches can provide a good experience based on the user's environment, but while the Orange Sea leans towards a more subdued sound profile, the Splash Brothers adds a layer of texture and richness to the auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Haimu Orange Sea switches are praised for their impeccably smooth typing experience, allowing for effortless key presses without any noticeable friction or hindrance. This smoothness makes for a comfortable typing session, reducing finger fatigue over prolonged use. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers switches offer a complex yet engaging typing feel characterized by multiple attributes: they are mild for a gentler experience, snappy for heightened responsiveness, bouncy for that spring-like feedback, and polished for a refined touch. This combination results in a lively and dynamic interaction with the keys, making them not just about typing but about the overall tactile experience.
In summary, both the Haimu Orange Sea and Jwick Splash Brothers switches cater to different preferences in typing quality. The Orange Sea stands out with its smooth action and neutral sound, making it suitable for those who value calm and consistent performance. Meanwhile, the Splash Brothers offer a richer, more engaging typing experience with a blend of responsiveness and a delightful sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you favor a more straightforward, smooth experience or a complex, textured interaction with your keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Haimu Orange Sea and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in typing feel, sound, and the context of your use. If you prefer an exceptionally smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the Haimu Orange Sea is an excellent choice, especially if you’re looking for a lighter actuation at 45 grams that can help minimize fatigue over long typing sessions. This switch shines in both casual and office environments where a quieter performance is desired. On the other hand, if you seek speed and responsiveness, the Jwick Splash Brothers are designed for a more dynamic experience, featuring a shorter activation point and a bouncier feel that can enhance your typing speed and overall engagement. These switches also come in at a slightly higher force of 48 grams, giving you a firmer key press that can be satisfying for gamers or fast typists alike. Their creamy sound gives them an appeal that balances performance and enjoyment, suitable for both home and shared workspaces. In summary, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize smoothness and quiet operation or desire a responsive and lively typing feel.
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