Outemu Blue vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue and Jwick Splash Brothers are two popular options to consider. The Outemu Blue switch is well-known for its satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, making it a favorite among those who enjoy the audible and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a different typing experience with its smooth and consistent keypresses, perfect for those who prefer a quieter and more subtle typing feel. While the Blue switch is categorized as a clicky switch, the Splash Brothers switch falls under the linear category. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Blue and Jwick Splash Brothers switches are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
However, the differences between the two switches lie in their nylon bottom housings. The Blue switch uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Splash Brothers switch also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering the same deeper and fuller sound profile as the Blue switch.
Overall, while both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, the difference in their bottom housing materials may impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material will contribute more to the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to the preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is clear that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Blue clicky switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Outemu Blue clicky switch has None grams listed, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Outemu Blue clicky switch would provide a lighter typing experience compared to the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, which would offer a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue clicky 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 Outemu Blue switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Jwick Splash Brothers switch. For those who prefer a switch with a longer travel distance, the Outemu Blue clicky switch would be the better option. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch would be the preferred choice. Both options offer different experiences due to their varying travel distances, but ultimately provide similar results in terms of key press feedback and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Blue 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 it comes to sound, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and crisp click. It creates a satisfying typing sound that many enthusiasts enjoy. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means it is not overly loud or soft, making it suitable for various environments. Keep in mind that the overall sound experience also depends on factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for its tactile feedback and pronounced tactile bump. Typing on these switches can provide a more tactile experience compared to linear switches. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a mild typing experience, falling in a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel. Additionally, these linear switches are described as snappy, meaning they are very responsive during typing. The Jwick Splash Brothers switches also provide a subtle tactile sensation without being overly aggressive, providing a smooth typing experience.
In conclusion, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a loud and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Blue switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a neutral sound profile and a gentle, yet snappy typing feel, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch could be more suitable. Overall, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a clicky typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a loud sound profile, the Outemu Blue switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and responsive typing feel with a lighter bottom out force and a more subtle sound profile, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is a great option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for and what feels most comfortable to you. Happy typing!
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