Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, you have two excellent options at your disposal. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is a linear switch that is perfect for budget-conscious individuals looking for high-quality performance. Known for its unique poppy and clacky sound, as well as its remarkable smoothness, this switch offers a bouncy and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice is also a linear switch that stands out for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, combined with a light touch for effortless actuation. If you prefer a vibrant feedback and a responsive typing experience, this switch may be the ideal choice for you. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Salt Ice opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing a clear and resonant sound profile similar to its top housing.
The choice of housing material in both keyboards significantly impacts the overall sound and feel of typing. With the V3 Cream Black Pro's split housing materials, the bottom housing's characteristics contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings offers a balanced typing experience with distinct tactile feedback at different points in keystrokes. Conversely, the Salt Ice's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout its housing results in a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile from keypress to release.
While the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Jerrzi Salt Ice both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing for similar sound characteristics, their choice of bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of sound profile and overall typing experience. The V3 Cream Black Pro prioritizes a fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing, creating a deeper sound profile that contrasts with the sharper tones of its polycarbonate top. In comparison, the Salt Ice maintains a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile throughout due to the use of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings. Ultimately, the choice between these keyboards may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro requires a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the bottom out force for the Salt Ice is unknown. The V3 Cream Black Pro provides a more medium-heavy typing experience, while the Salt Ice offers a lighter touch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Salt Ice for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the V3 Cream Black Pro for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, as the difference is only 0.1 mm. Therefore, the travel distance of both switches is relatively similar, and users can expect comparable results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches may come down to personal preference and whether a slightly shorter or longer travel distance is preferred.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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 it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched and sharp sound profile, which can add a distinct level of crispness to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is not described in the information provided, so it may offer a different sound profile that could potentially be more mellow or bassy. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, as well as how they interact with your specific keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch is often described as creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished. This means that they offer a smooth, buttery typing experience with a spring-like feedback that is both responsive and refined. As for the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, there is no information provided on its specific feel characteristics. However, if the Cream Black Pro is any indication, the Salt Ice may also offer a similar level of smoothness and responsiveness in its typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cream Black Pro stands out with its high-pitched and creamy sound profile, as well as its bouncy, snappy, and polished feel characteristics. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch is praised for its bright and clacky sound, as well as its light touch that provides vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as well as how they complement your overall typing experience with your specific keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the following guidelines: opt for the V3 Cream Black Pro if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, enjoy a poppy and clacky sound profile, and appreciate a creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience. On the other hand, choose the Salt Ice if you prefer a bottom out force that is unavailable, enjoy bright and clacky characteristics, and seek an energetic and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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