Jwick Splash Brothers vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Jwick Splash Brothers and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Jwick Splash Brothers and the Gazzew U4. While both switches offer a unique typing experience, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Splash Brothers, a linear switch, is best known for its shorter activation and long pole stem, which provide a satisfying typing feel. These switches also emit a creamy sound signature. On the other hand, the U4, a tactile switch, stands out for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, creating an exciting typing sensation. Additionally, the U4 offers a plush, felt-like bottom-out feeling and a whisper-quiet sound profile. Both switches have their own merits, making it important to delve deeper into their specifics to determine the best fit for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Splash Brothers and the Gazzew U4 switches offer distinct differences in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. The polycarbonate top housing of the Splash Brothers creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This translucent material is particularly useful for RGB lighting enthusiasts. In contrast, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. While both materials focus on sound quality, the Splash Brothers leans towards a brighter tone, while the U4 emphasizes a deeper and more resonant sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the nylon material of the Splash Brothers provides a classic switch housing experience. Typing on these switches produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder materials. Conversely, the Gazzew U4 features a proprietary blend of plastic in its bottom housing, which also contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. Like its top housing counterpart, the U4's bottom housing maintains a softness that enhances the overall sound experience. While both housings bring depth to the sound, the Splash Brothers' nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the U4's blend of materials adds a unique richness.
It's worth noting that when a switch uses different materials for the top and bottom housing, the qualities of each material are split between the two. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. In this regard, both the Splash Brothers and the U4 allow users to experience a tactile difference in sound between pressing and releasing a key. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate or the proprietary Gazzew blend, both switches assure a satisfying sound experience that caters to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are notable differences to consider. The actuation force for the Splash Brothers switch is listed as unavailable grams, while the U4 switch requires 43 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Splash Brothers switch measures 48 grams, which is relatively light, while the U4 switch requires a heavier 62 grams of force.
Weight is an important factor to consider as it can impact typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer lighter switches might benefit from the Splash Brothers switch, especially if they intend to use it for extended periods of typing or gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force allows for smoother and more effortless keystrokes.
On the other hand, individuals who seek a more substantial typing experience may prefer the U4 switch due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. The increased force required to trigger keystrokes can provide a more satisfying and tactile feel, ideal for those who enjoy a stronger push sensation while typing.
It is important to note that while the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, they both offer unique advantages. Those seeking a lighter typing experience can achieve similar results to the U4 switch's actuation force by using the Splash Brothers switch, even though the exact value is unavailable. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences, whether one favors a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have slightly different travel distances. The travel distance of the Splash Brothers is 3.5 mm, while the U4 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become more popular recently. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as they allow for faster response times. If you prioritize quick and responsive keystrokes, the Splash Brothers would be the better choice due to its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a more substantial key press. In this case, the Gazzew U4 with its slightly longer travel distance would be the more suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on personal preference regarding depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49, whereas the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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 Splash Brothers linear switch offers a creamy sound signature while typing. This means that the switch produces a smooth and pleasant sound that is not too loud or harsh. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is described as having a whisper quiet sound profile. This means that the U4 switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical keyboard switches. The U4 switches also have a low-pitched sound, which gives them a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. In terms of sound, the two switches offer different experiences, with the Splash Brothers being creamier and the U4 being quieter and more low-pitched.
When it comes to feel, the Splash Brothers linear switches provide a typing experience that is approachable to most users. The switches have a mild feel, which means that they offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Splash Brothers switches are also described as snappy, which means that they are super responsive and give a more lively typing experience. Additionally, the switches are bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation. The U4 tactile switches, on the other hand, are described as having a sharp tactile bump. This means that the switches have a high feedback intensity and users can feel a distinct and strong tactile bump with each keypress. The U4 switches offer a more pronounced and intense tactile experience compared to the gentle and bouncy feel of the Splash Brothers switches.
In conclusion, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches and the Gazzew U4 tactile switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Splash Brothers switches have a creamy sound signature and a mild, snappy, and bouncy feel, making them suitable for users who prefer a smooth and gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the U4 switches have a whisper quiet sound profile with a low-pitched tone and a sharp tactile bump, providing a more intense and pronounced typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and it is important to consider factors such as personal preference, the type of keyboard and keycaps used, and the environment in which the switches will be used when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and smooth linear switch with a shorter activation and a creamy sound signature, the Jwick Splash Brothers is the perfect choice for you. It offers a mild and subtle feel, making it approachable for most users, and its polished finish ensures a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight tactile switch with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 is the way to go. It provides a sharp feedback intensity and a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Additionally, its sound profile is whisper quiet, thanks to its muted and low-pitched characteristics. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for actuation force, typing feel, and sound profile. Consider your typing style and environment to choose the switch that will enhance your overall typing experience.
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