Jwick Splash Brothers vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Jwick Splash Brothers and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jwick Splash Brothers, a linear switch, to the Aflion Thunder Shadow, a tactile switch, distinct differences emerge. The Splash Brothers are celebrated for their speed and unique typing feel, boasting a shorter activation and a creamy sound signature. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow from Aflion offers a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel, with a neutral sound signature adding to its appeal. While the Splash Brothers provide a snappy and bouncy typing experience, the Thunder Shadow offers an invigorating tactile feedback. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Extended long spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Jwick Splash Brothers and the Aflion Thunder Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of the polycarbonate plastic provides a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. As both switches utilize the same material for their top housing, users can expect similar sound qualities and aesthetic benefits when using either switch.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Splash Brothers and the Thunder Shadow utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. Both switches benefit from the sound-absorbing properties of nylon, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Jwick Splash Brothers and the Aflion Thunder Shadow offers users a unique typing experience. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in materials used for the top and bottom housings, both switches provide users with a balance of sharp and crisp sounds from the polycarbonate top and deep and full sounds from the nylon bottom.
Weight
The Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a very light bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, but based on the difference in bottom out force, it can be assumed that the Splash Brothers may require less force to actuate compared to the Thunder Shadow. This difference in weight can cater to different preferences - the lighter Splash Brothers is suitable for longer typing sessions, while the heavier Thunder Shadow offers a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch is the same, both measuring 3.5 mm. When comparing the two, they both offer a consistent and precise travel distance, allowing for a smooth typing experience. With both switches having an identical travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and feedback. This makes them both ideal choices for individuals looking for a switch with a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between comfort and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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, both the Jwick Splash Brothers and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making them suitable for a variety of uses, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, or whether you plan to use them at home or in a work environment. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Jwick Splash Brothers switch is described as having a mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished feel. This means it offers a gentle typing experience that is responsive and provides a slight rebound when pressed. The Thunder Shadow switch, on the other hand, is described as being invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation.
In conclusion, while both switches have a neutral sound profile, they offer slightly different typing experiences. The Jwick Splash Brothers provides a smooth and refined typing experience with a creamy sound signature, while the Aflion Thunder Shadow offers a more invigorating feel with pronounced feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. However, given their similarities in sound profile, you can expect comparable results in that aspect.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing feel and bottom-out force. If you prefer a lighter touch and a snappy, bouncy, and subtle typing experience, the Splash Brothers may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force with an invigorating tactile bump and reactive feel, the Thunder Shadow might better suit your typing style. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and skill levels. Choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences, and you'll enjoy a satisfying keyboard experience.
Mentioned in this article
