Durock Sea Glass vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Durock Sea Glass and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Durock Sea Glass and the Jwick Splash Brothers, both being linear switches. The Sea Glass switch series, introduced by Durock, is renowned for its captivating selection of pastel colors that adds a touch of style. These switches offer a distinct typing experience with a dryness, wispiness, and airiness that sets them apart. Despite their 62g bottom-out force, they manage to feel weightless, providing a frictionless typing experience. Additionally, the Sea Glass switches produce a uniquely hollow sound signature. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers, inspired by the dynamic duo of Steph and Klay, offer a different set of advantages. These linear "speed" switches feature a shorter activation and a long pole stem, resulting in an excellent typing feel. Moreover, they produce a creamy sound signature. While these general aspects may help guide your decision, let's delve deeper into the specifics to determine which switch is best suited to your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
P3+
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The Durock Sea Glass and the Jwick Splash Brothers differ in their housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles and overall experiences. The Sea Glass utilizes a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing, offering a pleasant sound profile that is bright but not overly sharp. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize a crisp typing experience. If you plan to utilize RGB lighting, the translucency of polycarbonate adds an aesthetic advantage to the Splash Brothers.
Moving to the bottom housing, the Sea Glass continues its use of the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend. This blend provides a sound profile that is bright but not excessively sharp, similar to its top housing. On the contrary, the Jwick Splash Brothers employ nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its relatively softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a rounder and slightly duller sound compared to the Sea Glass. The choice between these two materials ultimately depends on personal preference, with the Sea Glass offering a brighter tone and the Splash Brothers providing a deeper and more resonant sound.
When considering the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities of the bottom and top housing will be split between the two switches. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down, making it crucial for the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when releasing a key. While the Sea Glass and the Splash Brothers may differ in their housing materials, they both aim to provide a pleasant typing experience, with slight variations in sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Sea Glass switch is slightly heavier overall. It has an actuation force of 45 grams, which indicates the force required to trigger a keystroke, and a bottom out force of 62 grams, signifying the amount of force needed to fully press the switch down. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switch does not have a specified actuation force but has a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Splash Brothers switch would be the better option as it requires less force to fully press down. This can be advantageous for those who type for extended periods, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may gravitate towards the Sea Glass switch. With its higher bottom out force, it provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience.
While the actuation force of the Splash Brothers switch is not available, it can be assumed that it falls within a similar range to the Sea Glass switch since both switches are linear. Overall, the choice between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preference. Whether one favors a lighter or heavier typing experience, there are options available to cater to both preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference in length. The Sea Glass has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, whereas the Splash Brothers has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This distinction may seem negligible, but for some individuals, it can make a difference in their typing experience.
Traditionally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm has been considered standard, providing a satisfactory depth for typing. On the other hand, a travel distance of 3.0 mm is more shallow and may not be suitable for everyone's preferences. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. In this context, the Splash Brothers switch with its 3.5 mm travel distance may be more appealing.
The decision between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference. If a more responsive typing experience with less travel is desired, then the Splash Brothers switch would be the preferred choice. However, some individuals find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, and for those who prefer a deeper keystroke, the Durock Sea Glass switch with its slightly longer 3.8 mm travel distance would be the better option. It is important to consider one's typing preferences and needs when selecting between these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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
The Durock Sea Glass linear switch is known for its distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness, which gives it a unique sound signature. Typing on these switches produces a hollow sound that sets them apart from others. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a creamy sound signature, offering a different auditory experience. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, so different combinations can yield varying results.
In terms of feel, the Sea Glass switch is described as frictionless, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. The switch has a mild characteristic, making it approachable for most users. It is also described as feathery and easy-to-press, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Splash Brothers switch also has a mild typing experience, falling within a safe middle-ground zone. It is described as snappy and bouncy, offering a responsive and lively feel. Additionally, the switch is noted for its subtlety and polished finish, contributing to a gentle resistance and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the subjective qualities of the Sea Glass and Splash Brothers switches differ in terms of sound and feel. The Sea Glass switches have a distinctive hollow sound, while the Splash Brothers switches have a creamy sound. The Sea Glass switches provide a frictionless and feather-light typing experience, while the Splash Brothers switches offer a snappy and bouncy feel, with a subtle and polished finish. While they have unique characteristics, both switches fall within the mild range and provide an enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, when comparing the Sea Glass and Splash Brothers switches, it is evident that they offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. However, both switches provide a smooth and effortless typing experience, with their own distinct characteristics. Whether you choose the Sea Glass or Splash Brothers, you can expect a satisfying typing feel, although the exact sound and feel would also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a captivating and unique typing experience, the Durock Sea Glass linear switches would be a great choice for you. With their distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness, these switches offer a weightless and frictionless feel that defies expectations. The Sea Glass switches also have a uniquely hollow sound signature, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you are after a dynamic and responsive typing feel, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches are a standout option. With their shorter activation and long pole stem, these switches provide a great typing feel. The Splash Brothers switches also have a creamy sound signature that adds to the overall enjoyment.
In terms of sound, the Sea Glass switches are described as quiet, while the Splash Brothers switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes and environments.
When it comes to feel, the Sea Glass switches are described as frictionless, mild, feathery, and easy-to-press, offering a smooth, gentle, and low-impact typing experience. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches are described as mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished, providing a middle-ground typing feel with responsiveness and a polished finish.
Ultimately, your choice between the Durock Sea Glass and Jwick Splash Brothers switches will depend on your personal preferences and the typing experience you are seeking. Whether you prioritize a distinct and weightless feel or a dynamic and responsive feel, both switches offer their unique advantages. So, consider your desired sound, feel, and aesthetic preferences to make a decision that aligns with your typing needs.
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