Kailh Box Royal vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal, a tactile switch, with the Jerrzi Salt Ice, a linear switch, we see distinct differences in their key features. The Box Royal is renowned for its extreme tactility, providing a sharp and binary feel that is nearly aggressive in nature. With a high-pitched sound profile, these switches are ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile response. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches stand out with their bright and clacky characteristics, coupled with a light touch for effortless actuation. Users seeking an energetic and responsive typing experience will find the Salt Ice switches to be a standout choice. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and Jerrzi Salt Ice differ in their housing materials, with the former featuring nylon top and bottom housings, while the latter utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Jerrzi Salt Ice allows for RGB lighting to shine through, providing a visually appealing experience for users who enjoy customizable lighting effects. In contrast, the opaque nylon housing of the Kailh Box Royal may not allow for the same level of visual customization but offers a different tactile and auditory typing experience. While both materials have their own unique qualities, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and Jerrzi Salt Ice housing materials comes down to the sound and feel preferences of the user. Both nylon and polycarbonate have their own unique characteristics that impact the sound profile and overall typing experience of the switch. Whether you prefer a softer and fuller sound with nylon or a crisper and sharper sound with polycarbonate, each material offers a distinct typing experience that can cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two comes down to personal preference and what attributes are most important to the individual user.
Weight
The actuation force of both the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is 45 grams, providing a light and responsive keystroke. However, the bottom out force of the Box Royal is 70 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Salt Ice, which has an unknown bottom out force. The Box Royal offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy bottom out force, while the Salt Ice's force remains a mystery. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, both switches would provide similar results due to their equal actuation forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that the Box Royal has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Salt Ice's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different typing experience. Those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback in their key presses may lean towards the Box Royal, while individuals who prioritize quick and snappy keystrokes may find the Salt Ice more suitable for their needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style, as both offer a relatively short travel distance that caters to a responsive typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25 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 Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is best known for its high-pitched profile, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This can add a unique auditory element to your typing experience, especially if you prefer a more distinct sound. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch's sound profile is not specified in the provided information, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in terms of sound.
In regards to feel, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is described as having a sharp and binary tactility, making it one of the most tactile switches available. The intense feedback and prominent tactile bump in these switches create a highly responsive typing experience. Conversely, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is not specifically described in terms of feel, so it's unclear how its typing experience would compare to the Box Royal in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, if you're looking for a switch with a sharp and aggressive tactility combined with a higher-pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and clacky typing experience with a lighter touch, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch may be more suited to your preferences. Keep in mind that the individual feel and sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so the choice between the two will come down to personal preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch or the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, think about your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and aggressive tactility with a high-pitched sound profile, then the Box Royal would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light touch, exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, and a more vibrant feedback with effortless actuation, then the Salt Ice switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for, whether it be intense tactility or energetic responsiveness.
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