HMX Hibiscus vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Hibiscus and Jerrzi Salt Ice are two impressive linear options that cater to different preferences. The Hibiscus switch is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, boasting an ultra-light actuation force that surpasses 80% of all switches on the market; this makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort and ease of use during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches stand out with their bright and clacky feedback, offering a more energetic and responsive typing experience that can invigorate your workflow. While both switches provide a satisfying feel, the Hibiscus leans towards a peaceful and buttery performance, whereas the Salt Ice delivers a lively and engaging interaction with each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Hibiscus Linear

Jerrzi Salt Ice Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$2.79

$2.30 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The HMX Hibiscus and Jerrzi Salt Ice feature distinct housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic characteristics and tactile feedback. The Hibiscus employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is a well-established material in the keyboard switch industry. Nylon's relatively soft composition contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs sound waves more effectively, resulting in a duller, rounder auditory experience. This softening effect allows for an overall subdued typing noise, providing a more muted and satisfying feel during usage. The uniformity of nylon throughout both housings ensures consistency in sound and feedback, creating a cohesive typing experience that many users find appealing.

In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice opts for polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to nylon. Polycarbonate's stiffer nature allows sound waves to resonate more clearly, resulting in a more vibrant auditory experience. This is especially pronounced in the top housing, where the translucency of polycarbonate lends itself well to RGB lighting, allowing for dynamic visual effects to complement a more pronounced sound. The use of polycarbonate in both housing components guarantees that users experience this crispness consistently, enhancing both the aesthetic and acoustic qualities of the switch.

When comparing these two switches, one can appreciate how the differences in top and bottom housing materials influence the overall typing experience. With the Hibiscus, the uniform use of nylon elicits a cohesive sound profile that focuses on depth and warmth. Conversely, the Salt Ice, with its dual polycarbonate design, emphasizes clarity and brightness. If a switch were to blend these materials—such as a nylon bottom housing paired with a polycarbonate top—users would experience a fascinating interplay where the deeper tones of the nylon bottom would work harmoniously with the sharper sounds from the polycarbonate top. This combination would yield a unique typing experience where the tactile and auditory feedback from each material creates a balanced blend of sound and sensation.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, there are some noticeable differences in their actuation forces, while the bottom out measurements vary more significantly. The Hibiscus requires a lighter actuation force of 42 grams, which allows for a quicker response and less fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Salt Ice has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, offering a more pronounced tactile feedback that some users may prefer for a substantial typing experience. However, the bottom out force of the Salt Ice switch is unavailable, making it difficult to assess its overall bottoming out experience. This lack of information might affect users' decision-making depending on their preference for feedback when keys are fully pressed. Thus, while the Hibiscus is the lighter option in terms of actuation force, the choice between the two switches will largely depend on individual preferences regarding actuation sensitivity and typing feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, the Hibiscus offers a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Salt Ice has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This indicates that the Hibiscus switch provides a deeper key press, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice could be more appealing for gamers looking for quicker response times and faster actuation. Ultimately, if you value rapid feedback and a more responsive experience, the Salt Ice may be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a more robust key press might gravitate towards the Hibiscus.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the HMX Hibiscus switches are known for their satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, delivering an enjoyable auditory experience with every keystroke. The vibrant acoustics contribute to an engaging typing atmosphere that many users appreciate. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches also exhibit a bright and clacky character, ensuring that each press produces a lively sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Both switches share a common quality of producing a lively and energetic sound, although individual results may vary based on factors such as the keyboard's construction and the specific keycap materials used.

When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus switches stand out for their unparalleled smoothness and ultra-light actuation force, making them one of the easiest switches to type on. This light touch allows typists to glide effortlessly across the keyboard, leading to fatigue-free typing during extended sessions. Conversely, the Salt Ice switches are known for their responsive actuation and energetic feedback, which promote a lively typing experience. While both switches provide a light touch, the Hibiscus focuses more on smoothness, whereas the Salt Ice emphasizes a more tactile and feedback-rich experience.

In conclusion, both the HMX Hibiscus and Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches offer distinct yet comparable auditory and tactile qualities that cater to diverse typing preferences. While the Hibiscus emphasizes a smoother, quieter typing experience with a delightfully crisp sound, the Salt Ice brings a more vibrant and energetic feel, accompanied by bright acoustics. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and sound preference, but either option will provide an engaging and pleasant mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it’s essential to consider your personal typing style and preferences. If you prefer an ultra-light actuation force with a smooth feel, the Hibiscus would be an excellent choice. Its 48-gram bottom-out force makes it particularly suitable for those who type for extended periods and desire a comfortable, less fatiguing experience. Moreover, the Hibiscus is renowned for its crisp sound profile, which may appeal to you if you're looking for a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, if you're someone who thrives on a more energetic and vibrant typing experience, the Salt Ice switches are designed for you. Their uniquely bright and clacky characteristics, alongside their light touch, promise a responsive experience perfect for high-speed typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize a plush, smooth feel, and gentle sound — in which case go for the Hibiscus — or a lively, tactile response that keeps your energy up, which is where the Salt Ice excels.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Hibiscus Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Jerrzi Salt Ice Linear

$2.79

$2.30 per 10

Learn more