Bsun Cliff vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cliff and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Cliff and the Jerrzi Salt Ice offer distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences. The Cliff tactile switch is characterized by its medium tactility and crisp sound signature, making it an excellent choice for typists who appreciate a noticeable bump and feedback with each keystroke. This engaging tactile response can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction during long sessions. On the other hand, the Salt Ice linear switch is known for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, paired with a light touch that offers a smooth, uninterrupted feel. Users who crave an energetic and responsive typing experience may find the Salt Ice to be a perfect match, as it delivers swift actuation without the distraction of tactile bumps. Both switches have their unique advantages, catering to different preferences in typing style and sound profile; 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.30 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Cliff and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, it's important to note that both switches share a polycarbonate top housing. This similarity ensures a consistent performance in terms of sound, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate material's rigidity contributes to its clear and resonant tonal quality, which is particularly advantageous for use with RGB lighting. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant light diffusion, making both switches visually appealing when illuminated. Thus, users can expect a similar auditory and visual experience when it comes to the top housing of both switches.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the Bsun Cliff sets itself apart with its use of nylon, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice incorporates polycarbonate. The nylon material in the Cliff lends a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer composition, which absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a muted yet rounded auditory experience, distinguishing it from the Jerrzi Salt Ice, which continues the crisp and clear sound profile thanks to its polycarbonate bottom housing. As such, while both switches have a high-performing top housing, their bottom housings contribute distinctly to the overall sound and feel, with the Cliff delivering a more bass-heavy response and the Salt Ice maintaining its bright tonal clarity.
These differences in bottom housing materials illustrate how each switch can cater to various user preferences; someone seeking a fuller, more resonant typing experience may gravitate toward the Bsun Cliff with its nylon base, while those preferring a bright and clear sound might favor the Jerrzi Salt Ice with its entirely polycarbonate construction. When pressed, users will immediately notice the impact of each bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel. Similarly, when releasing a key, the qualities of the polycarbonate top housing of both switches will ensure a consistent sharpness and clarity, underscoring how both switches harmonize in specific areas while providing unique tonal experiences overall.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Cliff tactile switch to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation force and weight that cater to varying user preferences. The Cliff features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom-out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience that can accommodate extended use. In contrast, the Salt Ice switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a heavier push feel, which might appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial feedback with each keystroke. Notably, the bottom-out force for the Salt Ice is unavailable, meaning we can't assess its total travel resistance. Overall, the Cliff switch is lighter, which may be beneficial for lengthy typing sessions or gaming marathons, while the Salt Ice is heavier, which could provide a more tactile experience for users who favor that characteristic.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, the Cliff offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Salt Ice features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Cliff switch engages at a deeper depth, providing a more substantial tactile feedback, which can be appealing for users who prefer a hearty feel as they type or game. Conversely, the Salt Ice, with its lesser travel distance, may cater to those seeking quicker response times and a more immediate sensation when pressing keys, typical of preferences in the gaming community. Ultimately, those seeking efficiency and rapid engagement might opt for the Salt Ice, while users who enjoy a more pronounced depth may prefer the Cliff. Overall, the Cliff is the longer travel switch, and the Salt Ice is the shorter option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cliff has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cliff for $2.19.
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 comparing the sound characteristics of the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, you'll notice distinct differences. The Cliff offers a crisp sound signature that is medium in volume, providing a satisfyingly clear auditory cue with each keystroke. In contrast, the Salt Ice switches are recognized for their bright and clacky acoustics, generating a lively sound profile that further emphasizes their energetic typing experience. The interaction of these switches with keycap material and board design can alter the sound produced, but the inherent qualities of the Cliff and Salt Ice switches set them apart in terms of auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch offers a medium tactility that delivers a pronounced bump, allowing typists to receive clear feedback about actuation. This tactile response can enhance the typing experience, particularly for those who prefer a blend of bump and smoothness. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is characterized by its incredibly light touch and vibrant feedback, creating a seamless typing experience that feels almost effortless. The smooth actuation of the Salt Ice appeals to those who favor rapid key presses without the distraction of significant tactile feedback.
In summary, the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Cliff is recommended for those who appreciate a medium tactility paired with a crisp sound signature, while the Salt Ice is ideal for users seeking a bright, clacky sound along with a light, smooth touch. Depending on your typing style and sound preferences, both switches will deliver a unique experience, allowing you to find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Cliff tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch will significantly depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a tactile feel that provides a noticeable bump and a crisp sound signature with each keystroke, the Cliff switch, with its medium tactility and light 45-gram resistance, could be an excellent fit for you. It's particularly suitable for typists who enjoy a more engaging experience and appreciate feedback while typing, making it a great option for both writing and gaming.
On the other hand, if you're drawn to a smoother and more fluid typing experience that excels in a lively and clacky sound profile, you may prefer the Salt Ice linear switch. With its vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, this switch is ideal for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness and don’t mind sacrificing tactile feedback for a more streamlined experience. Overall, your decision should align with whether you want a more tactile and pronounced keystroke or a smooth, uninterrupted flow, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard suits your unique typing preferences.
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