Kailh Box White vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and the Jerrzi Salt Ice offer unique typing experiences for different preferences. The Box White is a clicky switch that provides maximum audio feedback, with a distinctive "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and pronounced tactility. On the other hand, the Salt Ice is a linear switch known for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, along with a light touch and vibrant feedback. While the Box White excels in offering a satisfyingly crunchy typing experience, the Salt Ice stands out for its energetic and responsive feel. Each switch has its own strengths, but 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches, it becomes apparent that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Box White differs in its bottom housing material, which is made of nylon. Nylon is softer compared to polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials will impact the overall sound and feel of each switch.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both the Kailh Box White and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches results in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. This shared housing material not only contributes to the switches' sound but also adds a visually appealing aspect, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, the differences in their bottom housing materials set them apart - the Box White with nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Salt Ice with polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound. These variations in bottom housing will affect the typing experience and the overall feel of each switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box White and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches will depend on personal preferences in sound and feel. The combination of polycarbonate top housing in both switches ensures a consistent sharp and clear sound profile, while the different bottom housing materials introduce distinct qualities to each switch. Whether one prefers the deeper sound of the Box White with nylon bottom housing or the crisper sound of the Salt Ice with polycarbonate bottom housing, both switches provide a unique typing experience with their housing materials playing a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a medium actuation force, but the Box White requires a slightly heavier touch. When it comes to bottom out force, the Box White has a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Salt Ice switch has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Box White switch will provide a more substantial typing experience compared to the Salt Ice switch, which may be preferred by those who like a bit more resistance when typing. However, for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Salt Ice switch may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. While the Box White offers a slightly longer travel distance, the difference is minimal and may not be noticeable for most users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference - whether you prefer a slightly deeper key press with the Box White or a slightly shorter and crisper press with the Salt Ice. Both switches will offer a similar typing experience overall due to their comparable travel distances.
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 White comes in at $2.76 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 White clicky switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched characteristics, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience similar to the sound of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch does not have a specific sound description provided, so it is likely to offer a different auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with the Box White offering a more pronounced and crisp sound compared to the unknown sound characteristics of the Salt Ice.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific feel description provided for the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch. Without this information, it is difficult to directly compare the tactile experience of the two switches. However, based on the description of the Box White switch, it is likely to offer a more refined and sleek typing feel compared to the Salt Ice switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a resonant sound and polished feel, the Kailh Box White may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with bright and clacky characteristics and a light touch, the Jerrzi Salt Ice could be the perfect choice. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right switch for your typing preferences, so trying out both switches in person may be the best way to determine which one suits you best.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you are someone who values maximum audio feedback and enjoys a crisp, high-pitched sound profile while typing, the Box White switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and vibrant feedback without the clicky noise, the Salt Ice switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Consider your personal preferences for sound and feel when making your decision between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
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