Jwick Splash Brothers vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Jwick Splash Brothers and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Jwick Splash Brothers and the SP-Star Yanyu. The Splash Brothers switches, known for their linear speed design, offer a unique typing experience with a shorter activation and a long pole stem. These switches provide a satisfying feel, and their creamy sound signature adds to the overall enjoyment. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or for those who spend extended periods at their keyboards. With a material blend that enhances the crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switches create a satisfying typing experience. Both switches fall under the neutral, mild, subtle, polished category, but beyond these generalities, let's dive in a bit deeper to help you decide which switch is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Splash Brothers and the SP-Star Yanyu exhibit notable differences in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Jwick Splash Brothers feature a polycarbonate top housing, which lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Yanyu utilizes a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing. This blend offers a pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Jwick Splash Brothers employ a nylon material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Yanyu features a bottom housing that is a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE, similar to its top housing. This blend contributes to a unique sound profile that is both pleasant and distinct, characterized by a balanced brightness without being overly sharp.
It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will be divided accordingly. Pressing down on a switch will primarily highlight the traits of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced more by the top housing. Despite their differences, both the Jwick Splash Brothers and the SP-Star Yanyu offer distinct and enjoyable sound profiles through their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. In terms of actuation force, it is unknown for both switches. However, the Jwick Splash Brothers has a bottom out force of 48 grams, which is considered light, while the SP-Star Yanyu has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 43 grams.
The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider for different preferences. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force might enjoy typing for longer periods of time and find it perfect for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience might opt for options with heavier forces.
Although we do not have information on the actuation forces of these switches, we can assume that they would provide similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. This means that users can expect a relatively light touch to activate the keys on both switches.
In terms of bottom out force, the Jwick Splash Brothers is slightly heavier with 48 grams, while the SP-Star Yanyu is lighter at 43 grams. This suggests that the Jwick switch might provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to the slightly heavier force required to fully press down the keys.
Overall, while both switches have unknown actuation forces, the Jwick Splash Brothers is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the SP-Star Yanyu. This means that for those seeking a more substantial typing experience, the Jwick switch might be a better option. However, those who prefer a lighter touch and longer typing sessions might find the SP-Star Yanyu more suitable.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that they have noticeable differences. The Jwick Splash Brothers has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Yanyu has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of the most traditional travel distance, the Yanyu aligns with it, as it measures 4.0 mm. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers falls on the shallower end with its 3.5 mm distance.
These variations in travel distance cater to different preferences and purposes. Gamers, for instance, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times during intense gaming sessions. In this case, the shorter travel distance of the Jwick Splash Brothers would be a suitable choice. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distances too abrupt or lacking depth. For those who prefer a more hearty keystroke experience, the Yanyu with its longer travel distance would be a better option.
In conclusion, the Jwick Splash Brothers and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switches offer contrasting travel distances. While one is shorter and the other is longer, both cater to different preferences and requirements. Whether one desires a quicker response time or a more pronounced keystroke, the choice between the two switches can be made based on individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 offers a creamy sound signature. This means that when the switches are pressed, you can expect a smooth and pleasant sound experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a crisp sound profile due to its material blend. This means that the sound produced by these switches will be sharper and more defined. Both switches fall under the category of neutral sound, which means that they have a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch provides a mild and snappy typing experience. These switches have a shorter activation combined with a long pole stem, resulting in a great typing feel. They also have a subtle and polished finish, meaning the typing experience will be smooth and refined. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience. These switches are exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. They also have a subtle and polished finish for a sleek typing experience. Both switches fall under the category of mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that will be approachable to most.
Taking all the available information into account, the Jwick Splash Brothers and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Splash Brothers provides a creamy sound signature and a snappy typing experience, the Yanyu offers a crisp sound profile and a feathery typing experience. However, it's important to note that their feel falls under the same category of mild, and their sound falls under the same category of neutral. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you're looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a linear switch with a light bottom out force and a great typing feel, the Jwick Splash Brothers would be your best choice. It offers a creamy sound signature and has a shorter activation combined with a long pole stem, providing a unique and satisfying experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate typing experience or need to type for long periods of time, the SP-Star Yanyu would suit you better. It has a slightly lighter bottom out force and a crisp sound profile due to its material blend. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and offer a mild typing experience, making them suitable for various purposes. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your personal preferences and requirements.
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