Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Jwick Splash Brothers are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features and benefits. The Semi-Silent Linear is praised for its innovative design, providing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still maintaining a satisfying clacky bottom-out sound. This switch offers a silky smooth type feel that is not overly polished. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches are reminiscent of the dynamic duo themselves, Steph and Klay, with their "speed" switches offering a shorter activation and a long pole stem that results in an excellent typing feel. Additionally, these switches provide a creamy sound signature. While these general descriptions give an idea of what each switch offers, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Jwick Splash Brothers both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, allowing for a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the transparent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it enhances the visual impact of the lighting effects. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from the polycarbonate top housing of both switches.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Jwick Splash Brothers differs as they both use nylon. Nylon is a traditional housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer composition absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. When typing on these switches, users will experience the characteristics of the nylon bottom housing, which greatly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys. Thus, the nylon material in the bottom housing creates a distinction between the two switches, enhancing the overall sound experience for users.
When it comes to the impact on sound when releasing a key, the top housing plays a significant role. As the top housing of both switches is made from polycarbonate, the sound produced upon key release will be quite similar. The stiffness and translucency of polycarbonate contribute to a consistent sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when compared to other housing materials. Therefore, users can anticipate a consistent and satisfying sound experience when releasing keys, regardless of whether they are using the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear or the Jwick Splash Brothers.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear is unknown, while the actuation force of the Splash Brothers is also unavailable. However, the bottom out force of the Semi-Silent Linear is 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the Splash Brothers has a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams.
Considering weight as a factor, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch to allow for longer typing periods, especially if they intend to use the keyboard for work or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. The lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Splash Brothers may be ideal for these users.
On the other hand, some users may desire a stronger push feel to enjoy a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear's medium bottom out force of 62 grams may provide the desired tactile feedback and resistance.
While the exact actuation forces for both switches are unavailable, it is worth mentioning that similar results can be obtained by comparing their respective bottom out forces. The Splash Brothers, with its lighter bottom out force, can still provide a comfortable and responsive typing experience, while the Semi-Silent Linear, with its heavier bottom out force, may offer a more robust and tactile feel.
In summary, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Jwick Splash Brothers differ in their bottom out forces, with the Semi-Silent Linear having a medium force and the Splash Brothers having a lighter force. The choice between the two will depend on individual preferences, with some favoring a lighter feel for prolonged typing, while others may enjoy the stronger push of a heavier switch for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there is a slight difference. The Semi-Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Splash Brothers has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Splash Brothers offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the Semi-Silent Linear. Gamers, who often prioritize speed, may find the Splash Brothers more appealing for their faster response times. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial depth and a less abrupt feeling when pressing the keys may lean towards the Semi-Silent Linear with its longer travel distance. Nonetheless, both switches provide similar results in terms of shorter travel distances, catering to the growing trend of quicker key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is best known for its innovative design that combines a whisper-quiet topping-out sound with a clacky bottom-out sound. This switch offers a subdued sound profile, producing a dampened sound when pressed. While not completely silent, it provides a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The feel of the Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience. It has a snappy response and a buttery smooth keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is known for its shorter activation combined with a long pole stem, creating a great typing feel. It offers a neutral sound profile, which is moderate in terms of volume and actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced, and for use in various settings. The feel of the Splash Brothers switch is also described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience. It has a snappy response and a subtle, light resistance, allowing for comfortable typing. The switch has a bouncy feel, giving a spring-like feedback sensation, and a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and Splash Brothers linear switches offer impressive qualities. While the Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a subdued sound profile and a silky smooth feel, the Splash Brothers switch offers a neutral sound profile with a creamy sound signature and a shorter activation for a great typing feel. The feel of both switches is mild, with snappy responses and polished finishes for reduced friction. Overall, these switches provide approachable and enjoyable typing experiences, and users can expect similar results from both options.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize a medium bottom out force and enjoy a semi-silent and clacky sound profile, along with a silky smooth type feel, the Semi-Silent Linear is the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate a creamy sound signature, combined with a shorter activation for a great typing feel, the Splash Brothers switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, making them suitable for most purposes. Additionally, both switches can provide a snappy and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, consider your specific preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel to make the decision that best suits your needs.
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