Durock Black Lotus vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, certain characteristics stand out. The Black Lotus is favored for its silky smooth feel and accuracy, as well as its reduced housing and stem wobble for a maximal typing experience. With a 55g actuation weight that strikes a balance between substantial and manageable, it offers a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are known for their bright and clacky qualities, along with a light touch that provides vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. These switches are ideal for users who crave an energetic and responsive typing experience. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Black Lotus features a unique blend of Modified PC & UPE in its top housing, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice uses polycarbonate for its top housing. The Black Lotus's housing material provides a premium feel, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Salt Ice offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both materials offer different sound profiles, with the Black Lotus likely providing a softer and fuller sound due to its blend, while the Salt Ice offers a higher-pitched and clearer sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, giving both switches a visually appealing aspect.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Black Lotus utilizes nylon, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer composition. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, they cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The choice between a softer and rounder sound with nylon or a clearer and more resonant sound with polycarbonate ultimately depends on the user's preference for sound and feel while typing.
It's important to note that the qualities of each housing material in both switches will affect different aspects of typing. The bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights the importance of choosing housing materials that align with personal preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions. Whether opting for the unique blend of Durock's Black Lotus or the sharpness of Jerrzi's Salt Ice, users can expect distinct typing experiences based on the housing materials used in these switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that the Black Lotus is the heavier option, with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Salt Ice is the lighter option, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force that is unknown. The difference in weight between the two switches offers users the choice between a lighter typing experience with the Salt Ice or a more substantial typing feel with the Black Lotus. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience based on the user's preference for lighter or heavier switches.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making the Jerrzi Salt Ice the shorter of the two switches. The Black Lotus offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Salt Ice provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers who prioritize quicker response times may prefer the Salt Ice due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may opt for the Black Lotus. Both switches offer unique advantages based on individual preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
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
In terms of sound, the Black Lotus linear switch is known for its quiet and smooth typing experience. The Salt Ice linear switch, on the other hand, is characterized by a bright and clacky sound profile, offering a lively and energetic typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by additional factors such as the keyboard's housing and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Black Lotus linear switch is often described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth and fluid typing experience with reduced wobble for maximum precision. This switch provides a comfortable and effortless keystroke, making it a popular choice among typing enthusiasts. On the other hand, details about the specific feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch are not provided, so it's recommended to try them out firsthand to determine if they suit your preferences.
Overall, both the Durock Black Lotus and Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Black Lotus emphasizes smoothness and precision, while the Salt Ice focuses on bright and clacky feedback for a more energetic typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you can choose between these switches to enhance your typing journey. Remember to consider factors like keycap compatibility and board configuration to fully optimize your typing setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a silky smooth feel, unparalleled precision, and a unique light column, the Black Lotus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, vibrant feedback, and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice might be the perfect fit for your typing needs. Consider the sound, feel, and features of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Black Lotus and Salt Ice switches will depend on what qualities you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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