Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow 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 Yellow Pro and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key distinctions to consider. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a linear switch that boasts a satisfying combination of a poppy, clacky sound and smoothness, making it a great choice for those who value both auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is renowned for its bright and clacky characteristics, along with a light touch that offers vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Jerrzi Salt Ice is in their bottom housing. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Salt Ice has a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer composition that leads to clearer resonance. This contrast in bottom housing materials can result in a noticeable difference in the typing experience between the two switches.
In terms of their top housing, both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Salt Ice utilize polycarbonate, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it suitable for RGB lighting applications, adding an aesthetic dimension to the switches. Despite having the same top housing material, the overall typing experience and sound profile of the two switches may still vary due to the differences in their bottom housing materials.
Overall, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Jerrzi Salt Ice share the same polycarbonate top housing, their bottom housing materials set them apart in terms of sound profiles and typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice contributes to a sharper and clearer sound. Users may prefer one over the other based on their sound preferences and typing feel, as the bottom housing has a direct impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch. However, both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, enhancing the clarity and crispness of the sound produced.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch have distinct differences in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the Salt Ice is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Salt Ice switch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may prefer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing resistance and pressure.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3mm compared to the Salt Ice's 3.4mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, making them suitable for gamers looking for faster response times. However, some users may find the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's slightly shorter travel distance to feel more abrupt, while the Salt Ice's slightly longer travel distance may provide a slightly deeper key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Yellow Pro for $2.00.
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 V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches offer a poppy, clacky sound, creating a vibrant auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are known for their exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, providing an energetic and lively typing experience. Both switches can deliver satisfying sound profiles, although the final sound outcome can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished. These switches offer a smooth and gentle resistance during key presses, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue during extended use. The Salt Ice switches' feel is not mentioned, but based on the description, they are likely to provide a light and responsive typing experience that complements their bright and clacky sound profile.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switches and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches provide a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth, easy-to-press feel, the Salt Ice switches offer a bright, clacky sound and likely a responsive typing experience. Depending on your sound and feel preferences, both switches can enhance your typing experience, providing a satisfying and enjoyable result.
Conclusion
Overall, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you are on a budget and enjoy a satisfying auditory experience with a creamy tactile feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for exceptionally bright and clacky switches with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice switches could be the perfect fit for your typing preferences. Additionally, if you prefer easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, or polished switch characteristics, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches offer a variety of options to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing feel you are seeking in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
