TTC Flame Red vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flame Red and Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Flame Red is renowned for its mesmerizing light diffuser, making it perfect for those who desire a backlit, RGB keyboard. Typing on these switches provides a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, giving users a polished and mild experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are known for their exceptionally bright and clacky feel, coupled with a light touch. They offer vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, catering to users looking for an energetic and responsive typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
54g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches provide contrasting characteristics in terms of sound profile and feel. The Flame Red's nylon top and bottom housing result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Salt Ice's polycarbonate top and bottom housing produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as a result of its stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. While the Flame Red offers a softer typing experience, the Salt Ice provides a more tactile and precise typing experience.
Despite their differences, both the Flame Red and Salt Ice switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice's polycarbonate housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, appealing to users who prefer a more tactile and precise typing feel. Both housing materials offer distinct advantages, allowing users to choose based on their desired sound and typing experience.
In cases where the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, such as in the Flame Red and Salt Ice switches, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound as the key is released. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience that combines the characteristics of both materials, catering to users who appreciate a balance between sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force is the same at 45 grams for both switches. However, the Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams, while the bottom out force of the Salt Ice is unknown. This makes the Flame Red slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of 45 grams in both switches makes them ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing or gaming. However, since the bottom out force is unknown for the Salt Ice switch, it may provide a different typing experience compared to the Flame Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Flame Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Salt Ice. The Flame Red's 4 mm travel distance provides a bit more depth when pressing down on the key, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Salt Ice's 3.4 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it potentially more suitable for those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer a balance between traditional and shallow travel distances, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize depth or speed in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 comparing the sound profile of the Flame Red and Salt Ice switches, the Flame Red is best described as having a neutral sound profile. This means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are known for their exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, offering a more energetic and responsive typing experience with a light touch. When it comes to feel, the Flame Red switches offer a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle feel and smooth key travel due to its refined finish. The Salt Ice switches, on the other hand, offer a light touch and vibrant feedback for a clacky and effortless actuation experience. Overall, while the Flame Red and Salt Ice switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, both provide a great typing experience depending on the preference of the user. So, whether you choose the Flame Red or Salt Ice, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that you prioritize in your keyboard experience. If you value a visually stunning backlit keyboard with a medium-light bottom out force and a weighty smoothness in typing, the Flame Red is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer exceptionally bright and clacky switches with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of visual appeal, typing experience, and sound profile. Make sure to choose the switch that aligns best with your individual needs and enjoy a customized and satisfying typing experience.
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