Outemu Black vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Black and the Jwick Splash Brothers both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Black is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation force. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers, also a linear switch, is praised for its shorter activation and long pole stem which provides an excellent typing experience with a creamy sound signature. While the Outemu Black may be preferred for its neutrality and mild typing experience, the Jwick Splash Brothers stand out for their snappy and bouncy feel. 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
65g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Black and Jwick Splash Brothers both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is especially useful in the top housing for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. However, despite these similarities, the Outemu Black and Jwick Splash Brothers may differ in other housing materials.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Outemu Black and Jwick Splash Brothers utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's relatively softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice in the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, providing a unique typing experience that sets these switches apart from others on the market.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Outemu Black and Jwick Splash Brothers creates a balanced sound profile with distinct characteristics. While both switches share similar qualities in terms of their top housings, the differences in their bottom housings contribute to a varied typing experience. Whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound, both the Outemu Black and Jwick Splash Brothers offer unique options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a customized typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch is heavier in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch. The Black switch has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, making it a heavier option overall. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switch has a lighter actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This makes it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Splash Brothers switch for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Outemu Black switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Splash Brothers has a shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Black. The 0.5 mm might not seem like a significant difference, but it can make a noticeable impact on typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the Splash Brothers, while those who enjoy a deeper press may lean towards the Outemu Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer smooth linear action, so you can expect a similar feel in that aspect.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Black comes in at $3.10, 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 comparing the subjective qualities of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch in terms of sound, the Outemu Black is known for having a neutral sound profile which can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is known for producing a creamy sound signature, adding a touch of uniqueness to the typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Black lacks a specific descriptor, so it is difficult to pinpoint the exact feel it provides. However, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is described as offering a mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished typing experience. These characteristics combined make the Splash Brothers switch versatile and appealing to a wide range of users due to its balanced and responsive feel.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the Outemu Black and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches differ in terms of sound and feel, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile or a creamy sound signature, or are looking for a switch that is mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished, you can expect to receive similar results in terms of overall satisfaction and performance from these two popular linear switches. Choose based on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
In summary, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing force and sound. If you prefer a heavier typing force and are not particularly concerned with sound, the Black switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing force and enjoy a creamy sound signature, the Splash Brothers switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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