Jwick Splash Brothers vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Jwick Splash Brothers and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, finding the perfect switch can greatly enhance your typing experience. Two popular options that offer unique features are the Jwick Splash Brothers and the Durock T1. The Jwick Splash Brothers is a linear switch that stands out with its shorter activation and long pole stem, resulting in a satisfying typing feel. Additionally, these switches emit a creamy sound signature that adds to the overall experience. In contrast, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch that offers exceptional comfort while typing. With a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, typing on these switches is a delight. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
Extended long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Jwick Splash Brothers and the Durock T1 both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housings. This choice of material results in a similar outcome for both switches, as polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Therefore, whether you choose the Jwick Splash Brothers or the Durock T1, you can expect comparable results in terms of the sound profile and compatibility with RGB lighting.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of the Splash Brothers and the T1 differ in terms of the sound they produce. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a more muffled and less sharp sound when bottoming out the keys on the Jwick Splash Brothers due to their nylon bottom housing. Similarly, the T1's nylon bottom housing provides a similar sound experience.
While the top and bottom housings of a switch may be made of different materials, it is important to consider the impact of each material on the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound produced when the key is released. Therefore, although the Jwick Splash Brothers and the Durock T1 may have different materials for their top and bottom housings, the overall qualities of the switch are determined by a combination of both materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of both switches is currently unavailable, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Splash Brothers requires 48 grams of force, which is considered light. In contrast, the T1 switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range.
When considering weight, it is important to note that some individuals prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it allows for prolonged use without fatigue. These individuals might find the lighter actuation force of the Splash Brothers appealing. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel. For these individuals, the heavier bottom out force of the T1 switch might provide a more satisfying typing experience.
Unfortunately, without the specific actuation force values for each switch, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, based on the provided information, we can conclude that the Splash Brothers is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the T1 is on the medium-heavy side. Overall, individuals looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Splash Brothers, while those seeking a more substantial feel might opt for the T1 switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is clear that the T1 has a slightly longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Splash Brothers has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The T1 falls within the realm of the traditional travel distance, offering a depth that some users prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers provides a slightly shallower travel distance, which is favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the T1 offering a more pronounced depth and the Splash Brothers providing a quicker and more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired level of depth or responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a creamy sound signature. This means that when typing, you will experience a smooth and pleasant sound reminiscent of cream being poured. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch produces a sound that resembles rain falling on a window. It has a low-pitched, bass-heavy and mellow tone, creating a soothing auditory experience. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, which means they are suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user and whether you plan to use them at home or work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Moving on to feel, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a typing experience that is both comfortable and responsive. It falls under the category of a mild switch, providing a gentle and approachable tactile sensation. Additionally, it is characterized as snappy, meaning it is highly responsive due to longer or dual-staged springs. This gives the typing experience a lively and engaging feel. Furthermore, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback that allows for key rebound. It is also considered subtle, offering a gentle resistance while maintaining a light typing feel. The switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a different typing experience. It falls under the category of a stepped switch, meaning it has two stages of tactility. This gives it a more mild tactile feel compared to switches with a single large bump. The T1 switch is described as accented, providing a notable amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Similar to the Jwick Splash Brothers, the T1 switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Splash Brothers provides a creamy sound signature and a comfortable typing feel characterized by mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished attributes. On the other hand, the T1 switch produces a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, with a low-pitched tone. Its typing experience is described as stepped, accented, and also polished. Although they differ, both switches offer a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. Whether you prefer the smooth and responsive feel of the Splash Brothers or the mild tactility of the T1, you can expect similar results in terms of reduced friction and smooth key travel due to their polished finishes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a light bottom out force, then the Jwick Splash Brothers would be an excellent choice for you. These switches offer a shorter activation combined with a long pole stem, resulting in a great typing feel. Additionally, they produce a creamy sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock T1 would be a perfect fit. These switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window.
In terms of sound, the Splash Brothers offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the T1 has a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, adding a unique auditory experience to your typing.
When it comes to the feel, the Splash Brothers offer a mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished typing experience. These switches provide a gentle typing experience with a spring-like feedback and a smooth key travel. On the other hand, the T1 is characterized by its stepped, accented, and polished feel. These switches offer a tactile experience with two stages, prominent tactility, reduced friction, and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Jwick Splash Brothers and the Durock T1 depends on your preferences. If you prefer a light linear switch with a creamy sound, go for the Splash Brothers. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a rain-like sound, go for the T1. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and desired typing experience when making your decision.
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