SP-Star RedBlue vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The SP-Star RedBlue and Jwick Splash Brothers are two unique mechanical keyboard switches, both offering their own distinct advantages. The RedBlue is best known for providing a medium-light typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a softer touch. This switch has a higher-pitched sound profile and falls under the categories of low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers, true to their name, offer a dynamic typing experience with their shorter activation and long pole stem. These switches have a creamy sound signature and are categorized as neutral, mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. While these general characteristics may help guide your decision, diving deeper into the specifics will ultimately allow you to choose the best switch for your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star RedBlue and the Jwick Splash Brothers both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound when typing on either switch. Aesthetically, polycarbonate's translucency is especially useful if you plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a vibrant and colorful display.
However, the bottom housings of these switches differ. The RedBlue features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Splash Brothers utilizes nylon. Typing on switches with a polycarbonate bottom housing elicits a sharper and crisper sound compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Splash Brothers. This is because polycarbonate is stiffer, resulting in a more distinct and resonant sound profile. Conversely, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material alters the overall sound and feel when the keys are pressed, with the bottom housing having a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel.
While the top and bottom housings differ between the RedBlue and the Splash Brothers, the general qualities of the respective housing materials still hold. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when releasing a key. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for the use of RGB lighting in both switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Splash Brothers offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue provides a sharper and crisper sound. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired sound profile for your typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. However, it is important to note that the specific actuation forces for both switches are unavailable. In terms of bottom out force, the RedBlue switch requires 57 grams, which can be considered medium-light, while the Splash Brothers switch requires 48 grams, which is lighter.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Splash Brothers switch may be the preferable choice, as its bottom out force is lighter than that of the RedBlue switch. This lighter force allows for smoother and more effortless keystrokes, which can be beneficial for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the RedBlue switch. Although the actuation forces of both switches are unknown, individuals looking for a heavier typing experience may find the RedBlue switch to be more suitable.
Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience. Those who prioritize a lighter switch for enhanced comfort and endurance may lean towards the Splash Brothers, while others who value a stronger keystroke and a more substantial feel may lean towards the RedBlue. It should be noted that regardless of the force required, both switches can deliver similar results in terms of actuation and bottoming out, providing satisfactory performance for users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, we find that the RedBlue has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Splash Brothers has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The RedBlue's 4.0mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, providing a moderate depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers with its 3.5mm travel distance is on the shallower side, appealing to those who prefer a quicker response time. Gamers, in particular, tend to opt for shorter travel distances to enhance their performance. However, it's important to note that some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, lacking the desired depth. Therefore, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences and requirements.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
The Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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 SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, which gives it a more energetic and lively tone. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch produces a creamy sound signature. This creaminess adds a smoother and softer quality to the typing experience. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, which means they have a moderate sound level suitable for various settings and users. The RedBlue switch also has a thocky sound characteristic, producing a deep and satisfying sound akin to a "thud" or a soft "knock." However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, both the SP-Star RedBlue and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches offer a mild typing experience. This mildness provides a gentle and approachable feel for most users, as it falls within a safe and middle-ground zone. Moreover, both switches have a polished finish, which ensures a smooth and refined typing experience. This polished characteristic reduces friction and promotes smooth key travel. The Splash Brothers switch also incorporates a snappy feel that enhances responsiveness. This responsiveness is achieved through longer or dual-staged springs, giving the typing experience a more lively and dynamic sensation. Furthermore, the Splash Brothers has a bouncy quality, providing a spring-like feedback and rebound when keys are pressed. Additionally, the switch has a subtle resistance that maintains a light typing feel without being feather-light. Its sound signature is also not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, the SP-Star RedBlue and Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The RedBlue switch has a higher-pitched sound profile with a thocky characteristic, while the Splash Brothers switch has a creamy sound signature. Both switches provide a mild typing experience with a polished finish that ensures smooth key travel. The Splash Brothers switch further enhances the typing experience with its snappy and bouncy feel, adding responsiveness and rebound. Overall, whether one prefers a more energetic and deeper sound or a creamy and smooth sound, both switches can provide similar results in terms of a pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is best suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience. It offers a low-pitched, neutral sound profile with a thocky sound when pressed. The RedBlue switch provides a mild and polished feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is perfect for those seeking a lighter typing experience. It has a neutral sound profile and offers a mild feel with a snappy, bouncy, and subtle feedback sensation. Additionally, the Splash Brothers switch also provides a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal preferences for typing force, sound, and feel.
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