Outemu Silent Grey vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Grey and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Grey and the Jwick Splash Brothers stand out as popular choices with unique characteristics. The Silent Grey switch is praised for its quietness and highly tactile typing experience, featuring a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke that appeals to those who prefer a satisfying yet silent typing session. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switch, inspired by the NBA duo Steph and Klay, offers a linear "speed" switch with a shorter activation and long pole stem, providing a great typing feel with a creamy sound signature. While the Silent Grey switch is categorized as tactile, the Splash Brothers switch falls into the linear category. Each switch has its own set of qualities that make it appealing, 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
65g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Both the Outemu Silent Grey and Jwick Splash Brothers feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This material is known for its clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches that are meant to produce a distinct sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Silent Grey and the Splash Brothers use nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This material is a classic choice for switch housings and can contribute to a more satisfying typing experience by providing a different feel and sound when compared to the polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in the sound and feel of typing. While both the Outemu Silent Grey and Jwick Splash Brothers feature similar polycarbonate top housings that create a distinct sound profile, they differ in the bottom housing material. The Silent Grey's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper sound profile, while the Splash Brothers also feature a nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound experience. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch determines the overall sound and feel when typing, with each material contributing unique qualities.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Grey is the heavier option. The Silent Grey has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Splash Brothers has an actuation force of None grams (unknown) and a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is considered light. The difference in weight between the two switches can greatly impact the typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter weight of the Splash Brothers for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Silent Grey for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches are within the range of typical travel distances for mechanical keyboards, with the Silent Grey being slightly longer than the Splash Brothers. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Splash Brothers for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Silent Grey. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent Grey 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 Silent Grey switch is known for offering a quiet typing experience with a smooth keystroke and a pronounced bump that is satisfying without being loud. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is described as having a creamy sound signature that adds a unique touch to the typing experience. Both switches offer different sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so your choice will depend on whether you prefer a quieter tactile experience or a creamy linear sound.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silent Grey switch provides a highly tactile typing experience with a smooth keystroke and a pronounced bump. In comparison, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Splash Brothers switch is described as being snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished, providing a responsive and smooth typing experience that is sure to please those looking for a lively feel with reduced friction. Both switches offer distinct feel qualities that cater to different preferences, so your choice will depend on whether you prefer a more tactile typing experience or a polished, smooth feel.
Overall, the Outemu Silent Grey switch and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offer different sound and feel qualities that cater to varying preferences. The Silent Grey provides a quiet and highly tactile typing experience, while the Splash Brothers offers a creamy sound signature and a smooth, polished feel. Depending on whether you prioritize a silent tactile typing experience or a smooth, responsive feel, you can choose between these two switches to customize your typing experience to your liking. Additionally, factors such as keycap choice and keyboard build will also influence the overall sound and feel of these switches, so make sure to consider those as well when making your decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you are looking for a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump, the Outemu Silent Grey switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a creamy sound signature and shorter activation, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific qualities you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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