Gateron CM vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, each offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The CM switch stands out for its full nylon housing, providing a richer and deeper sound signature along with a smooth typing experience, thanks to its impeccable factory lube job. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch boasts bright and clacky characteristics with a light touch, offering vibrant feedback and effortless actuation for an energetic typing experience. Both switches have their own set of qualities that make them appealing options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. 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
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective materials. The CM's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. This distinction in sound profiles is further emphasized by the stiffer nature of polycarbonate compared to the softer nylon, resulting in a more resonant sound from the Salt Ice switch. However, both materials offer benefits in terms of sound absorption, with nylon providing a duller sound and polycarbonate offering a clearer sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing of the switches, the comparison between the nylon bottom housing of the CM and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice follows a similar pattern to that of the top housing. The nylon bottom housing of the CM contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice creates a sharper and crisper sound. Just as with the top housing, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more resonant sound from the Salt Ice switch, highlighting the impact of housing materials on the overall sound experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
In considering the overall impact of housing materials on a switch, it is important to note how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. While the Gateron CM and the Jerrzi Salt Ice offer different sound profiles due to their housing materials, the qualities of each material contribute to the overall typing experience in a unique way that can be appreciated by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that the Salt Ice is the lighter option. The Gateron CM has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Salt Ice a more suitable option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, perhaps for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing, the Gateron CM would be the better choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron CM linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. The Gateron CM may offer a slightly deeper key press experience due to its longer travel distance, making it a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice's shorter travel distance could provide a more responsive and snappy typing experience, making it ideal for those who prioritize speed and agility in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 Gateron CM linear switch offers a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. This creates a satisfying auditory experience, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is not described in terms of sound characteristics, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, considering the vibrant and clacky nature of the Salt Ice switch, it may offer a more audible and energetic typing sound compared to the CM switch.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron CM switch is known for its buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. These qualities indicate a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation, with reduced friction and a sleek key travel. This results in a seamless and uniform typing experience, akin to gliding fingers across the keys with ease. Unfortunately, there is no specific description available for the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch in terms of feel, making it challenging to directly compare the tactile experience offered by the two switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its rich and deep sound profile, paired with a smooth and buttery typing feel, thanks to its unique nylon housing and factory lube job. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch excels in providing a bright and clacky typing sound, while offering a light touch and effortless actuation for a responsive typing experience. Ultimately, while the sound and feel qualities of these switches may differ, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with both options, tailored to their individual preferences in sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a rich and deep sound profile with a bouncy typing experience and enjoy a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, the Gateron CM switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and clacky sound with vibrant feedback, and a light touch that offers an energetic and responsive typing experience, then the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired sound and feel preferences for your mechanical keyboard.
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