Outemu Lotus vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Lotus linear switch to the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lotus is best known for its smooth linear feel, while the Splash Brothers, inspired by Steph and Klay, boasts a shorter activation time and a satisfying typing experience. The Lotus is categorized as linear, while the Splash Brothers fall into the neutral, mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, polished category. If you're looking for a dependable and consistent typing experience, the Lotus might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you value speed and a creamy sound signature, the Splash Brothers could be your ideal choice. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Lotus and Jwick Splash Brothers switches provide an interesting contrast in sound profiles. The Lotus's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. In comparison, the Splash Brothers's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer plastic material. The clear housing of the polycarbonate also allows for the RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
On the other hand, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar deep and full sound profile. The softer nylon material in the bottom housing of both switches helps absorb sound, creating a more subdued and round sound when typing. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users of either switch will experience a consistent typing sound and feel across their keyboards. However, the differences in the top housing material between the Lotus and Splash Brothers switches result in distinct sound profiles when pressing and releasing keys.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is evident that the choice of material can greatly affect sound and feel. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in switches like the Outemu Lotus and Jwick Splash Brothers allows for a nuanced typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material, such as its impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing material, affecting the sound when releasing a key, contribute to a dynamic and customizable typing experience for users. Whether nylon or polycarbonate, the housing materials play a significant role in determining the sound profile of switches and can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is worth noting that the Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams compared to the Splash Brothers, which has a force that is unspecified. However, both switches have a relatively light bottom out force, with the Lotus requiring 50 grams and the Splash Brothers at 48 grams. This means that while the actuation force of the Lotus is lighter, the bottom out force is similar between the two switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lotus may be the better choice, while those who prefer a slightly heavier feel may lean towards the Splash Brothers. Ultimately, the decision will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers seeking faster response times. The Lotus offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Splash Brothers, which may provide a slightly quicker keystroke response. However, the 0.2 mm difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to all users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Lotus 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have a specific descriptor, making it difficult to directly compare to the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, which is described as having a neutral sound profile. However, sound is also subjective and can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard, keycaps, and even the typing environment. Both switches may offer a pleasant typing experience depending on personal preference.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Lotus linear switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is described as mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. These characteristics suggest that the Splash Brothers switch offers a gentle and responsive typing experience with a spring-like feedback and a smooth key travel. In contrast, the feel of the Lotus switch remains unknown. Both switches may excel in different aspects of feel, catering to a variety of typing preferences.
Overall, the comparison between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch highlights different subjective qualities. While the Lotus switch lacks specific descriptors for sound and feel, the Splash Brothers switch is characterized by a neutral sound profile and a mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished feel. Depending on individual preferences and typing habits, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience. It is recommended to try out both switches if possible to determine which one suits your needs best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Lotus linear switch or the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile, the Lotus may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you desire a switch with a gentle typing experience that is super responsive and provides a bouncy, spring-like feedback, then the Splash Brothers may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics and qualities, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision.
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