Outemu Tom vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Tom and the Jwick Splash Brothers offer unique typing experiences. The Tom switch is a tactile option, known for its distinctive click and tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing feedback. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers are linear switches, designed for speed and smooth keystrokes, reminiscent of the dynamic duo, Steph and Klay. While the Tom switch is best for those who prefer a tactile feel and audible feedback, the Splash Brothers are ideal for users looking for a fast and responsive typing experience. 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
55g
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
3.30 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 Outemu Tom and the Jwick Splash Brothers both feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Tom uses nylon which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Splash Brothers also utilizes nylon for a similar effect. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the Outemu Tom and Jwick Splash Brothers differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Tom's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Similarly, the Splash Brothers's nylon bottom housing contributes to a similar effect, absorbing more sound than harder plastics and creating a duller and rounder sound profile. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows each part of the switch to bring unique qualities to the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches.
In terms of sound production and typing experience, the Outemu Tom and Jwick Splash Brothers showcase the impact of different housing materials on switch performance. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, their choice of nylon bottom housings results in variations in sound depth and fullness. The Tom's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper sound profile, while the Splash Brothers's nylon housing offers a similar effect. Overall, the combination of these housing materials in each switch contributes to a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences. The Outemu Tom has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes quickly and efficiently. However, its bottom out force is unknown, which may result in an uncertain typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers has a light bottom out force of 48 grams, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a softer touch. While the actuation force of the Splash Brothers is not provided, it can be assumed to be similar to the Tom due to the nature of linear switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing comfort and feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Tom has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Splash Brothers. The Tom's 3.3 mm travel distance may provide a faster response time, making it a popular choice among gamers who prioritize quick reactions. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers' 3.5 mm travel distance might appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press feel. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the market. In the end, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key response and feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Tom 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 Tom tactile switch is known for its sound signature being described as unknown. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is known for having a neutral sound profile. This means that the Splash Brothers linear switch offers a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various typing purposes, whether you are a beginner or experienced user. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Outemu Tom tactile switch's feel is described as unknown. In contrast, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a mild typing experience. This means that the Splash Brothers linear switch provides a gentle and approachable typing feel that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, these switches are noted to be snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished, which all contribute to a responsive, lively, and smooth typing experience.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch differ in terms of sound and feel, it is important to consider personal preferences when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch. If you are looking for a switch with a smooth and refined typing experience, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch with its neutral sound profile and mild feel may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that is unknown in sound and feel, the Outemu Tom tactile switch could also provide you with a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is important to consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a switch with a light bottom out force and a creamy sound signature that offers a gentle and approachable typing experience, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a switch with no specified bottom out force and are looking for a switch known for a different typing feel, the Outemu Tom tactile switch might be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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