Jwick Splash Brothers vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Jwick Splash Brothers and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Jwick Splash Brothers and the Gazzew U4T. The Splash Brothers, a linear switch, is best known for its shorter activation and long pole stem, resulting in a satisfying typing feel. Additionally, these switches offer a creamy sound signature that adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T, a tactile switch, combines a bassy 'thock' sound profile with assertive tactile feedback, creating a satisfying auditory and tactile experience with each keystroke. While both switches have their unique qualities, it's important to dive deeper into their characteristics to determine which one best suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Jwick Splash Brothers and the Gazzew U4T differ significantly in their housing materials. The Splash Brothers boast a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clear and resonant sound produced. In contrast, the U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile, thanks to its softness. While both materials aim to create distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate offers a more precise and bright tone, while the Gazzew blend focuses on a deeper and more resonating sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Jwick Splash Brothers employ a nylon material to enhance the typing experience. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, similar to its top housing material. Referred to as "boba plastic," this plastic blend also contributes to a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both housing materials aim to create a more muffled and round sound, allowing for a satisfying and immersive typing experience.
While the Jwick Splash Brothers utilize a combination of polycarbonate and nylon for their top and bottom housing, respectively, the Gazzew U4T employs its unique Gazzew blend material for both top and bottom housing. While the polycarbonate top housing of the Splash Brothers creates a sharper and more resonant sound when releasing a key, the Gazzew blend on the U4T delivers a deep and rich sound when typing and releasing keys. Despite their material differences, both switches focus on enhancing the sound experience through distinct approaches. Whether it be the clear and bright sound of the Splash Brothers or the muffled and immersive sound of the U4T, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force between the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is important to consider their weight as it can significantly impact typing preferences. The actuation force of the Splash Brothers is unknown, whereas the U4T also has an unavailable actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Splash Brothers requires only 48 grams, making it a lighter option. On the other hand, the U4T has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams, putting it in the medium range.
For individuals seeking a lighter typing experience, the Splash Brothers may be preferred as its lower bottom out force allows for prolonged typing sessions with less finger fatigue. This would be particularly suitable for those who use their keyboard extensively at work or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the U4T provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a bit more resistance.
It should be noted that since the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, it is difficult to directly compare them in this aspect. However, it can be inferred that the actuation force of both switches would likely align with their respective bottom out forces. Therefore, if one desires a similar actuation experience to their bottom out force preference, both the Splash Brothers and the U4T switches would provide similar results.
Ultimately, the decision between the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch will depend on personal preferences. Those who prioritize lightweight switches for extended typing or gaming sessions may find the Splash Brothers to be the better option. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the U4T.
Travel distance
The Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the U4T has a slightly longer travel distance than the Splash Brothers. A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered the most traditional, while a distance of 3.0mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become more popular recently, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the shorter travel distance of the Splash Brothers may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, some individuals find short travel distances to feel too abrupt, and for them, the U4T with its longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying depth. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific demands of the user.
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 U4T 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
When it comes to sound, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a creamy sound signature. This means that each keypress produces a smooth and gentle sound, without any harsh or sharp tones. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a bassy "thock" sound profile. This results in a deeper and richer sound during key presses, creating a satisfying auditory experience. The U4T switch also offers a distinct tactile feedback, adding an additional layer of satisfaction to each keystroke. Both switches provide unique sound experiences, with the Splash Brothers offering a neutral sound profile and the U4T delivering a bassy and "thocky" sound.
In terms of feel, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is described as mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. These descriptors all contribute to a typing experience that is gentle, responsive, and smooth. The keypresses have a lively feel with a spring-like feedback sensation, providing a sense of rebound. The switch also offers a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is characterized by a sharp tactile bump. This means that each keystroke provides a strong and crisp tactile feedback, allowing for a distinct sensation with every keypress. The U4T switch's tactile feedback intensifies the typing experience, making it highly satisfying for those who prefer pronounced tactile feedback.
Taking all the available information into account, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Splash Brothers provides a creamy sound signature and a mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished feel, making it suitable for various typing preferences and environments. On the other hand, the U4T switch offers a bassy "thock" sound profile, along with a sharp tactile bump for a heightened tactile experience. While the switches differ in their sound and feel, both provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences. Depending on personal preferences and desired typing sensations, individuals can choose between the smooth and neutral experience of the Splash Brothers or the deep and tactile satisfaction of the U4T switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when selecting between the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs.
If you prefer a lighter touch and a smoother typing experience, the Splash Brothers is an excellent choice. With its light bottom out force of 48 grams, it offers a mild and subtle feel. The shorter activation combined with the long pole stem provides a great typing sensation, and the creamy sound signature adds to the overall experience. The Splash Brothers switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced typists, and its neutral sound profile makes it suitable for various environments.
On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and a deeper, bassy sound, the Gazzew U4T might be the switch for you. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the U4Ts offer a sharp and crisp tactile bump with every keypress. The thocky sound profile adds to the auditory satisfaction, making each keystroke feel more substantial. The U4T switch is ideal for those who appreciate a tactile typing experience and desire a more assertive feedback.
Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Consider your typing style, the sound and feel you prefer, as well as the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. By carefully analyzing these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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