KTT Ash Gray vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Ash Gray, a tactile switch, and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, a linear switch. The Ash Gray switch is praised for its tactile response that strikes the perfect balance between a light touch and crisp actuation, providing users with a satisfying blend of feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch stands out for its bright and clacky characteristics, offering a vibrant feedback and effortless actuation for a more energetic typing experience. While the Ash Gray is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', the Salt Ice's category is not mentioned. 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
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Ash Gray and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches, making them ideal for users who prefer a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. While both switches share this top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing composition.
The Ash Gray features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Ash Gray switch. On the other hand, the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound profile, complementing the qualities of its polycarbonate top housing. This contrast in bottom housing materials showcases how different materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Ash Gray and the Jerrzi Salt Ice will depend on personal preferences for sound profile and typing experience. While both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate top housing, the Ash Gray's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, contrasting with the sharper sound of the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether one prefers a more resonant sound or a crisper typing experience, both switches demonstrate how housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall feel and sound of mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch's actuation force of 45 grams, making the Ash Gray easier to press for triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Ash Gray also has a lighter force of 53 grams compared to the Salt Ice's unknown bottom out force. This means that the Ash Gray switch is overall lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, making it better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch may provide a more substantial typing feel due to its slightly higher actuation force. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether a lighter or stronger push feel is preferred by the user.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, we find that the Ash Gray has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Salt Ice's 3.4 mm. While the difference may seem minimal, it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. The Ash Gray's 3.5 mm travel distance may provide a slightly deeper and more tactile typing experience, whereas the Salt Ice's 3.4 mm travel distance could offer a faster and more immediate response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more deliberate feel, the Ash Gray may be the better option. Conversely, if you prioritize speed and quick responsiveness, the Salt Ice could be the superior choice. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, and by considering the travel distance, you can select the one that best suits your needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
The Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch's sound remains unknown. Both switches may produce different sound profiles based on the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch provides an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance, making typing comfortable and reducing finger fatigue. Additionally, it offers a mild typing experience that appeals to a broad range of users. Unfortunately, the feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is not provided.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch stands out for its balanced tactile feedback and ease of typing, making it a versatile option for various users. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offers a bright and clacky typing experience but lacks information on its feel. Both switches may provide similar results in terms of sound and feel, depending on the user's preferences and setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light touch with a crisp actuation and subtle tactile feedback, the Ash Gray switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a bright and clacky typing experience with a light touch and vibrant feedback, the Salt Ice switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you value most. Choose the switch that best aligns with your preferences and typing style to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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