Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, both of which are linear switches. The Ink Black V2 is beloved for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, offering a low-pitched and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are known for their bright and clacky characteristics, providing vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. While the Ink Black V2 is favored for its classic feel, the Salt Ice stands out for its 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, one can see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Ink Black V2 features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, which is described as having a relatively high-pitched sound profile that is satisfying and clacky. On the other hand, the Salt Ice utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. While both switches offer a unique sound experience, the materials used in the housings play a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile of the switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the Jerrzi Salt Ice stands out with its clear polycarbonate housing, allowing for RGB lighting to shine through and creating a visually appealing look. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing enhances the lighting effects, making it a popular choice for gamers and enthusiasts who enjoy customizing their keyboards with vibrant colors. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2's INK blend top housing may not offer the same level of visual appeal as the Salt Ice, but it still delivers a unique sound experience that is equally satisfying for those who prefer a clacky sound profile. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice have different housing materials, they both offer a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles. The INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 delivers a thin and higher-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Salt Ice creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Whether you prefer the distinctive sound of the INK blend or the visual appeal of the clear polycarbonate, both switches are sure to enhance your typing experience and add a touch of personality to your keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Salt Ice offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force remains unknown. This makes the Salt Ice potentially lighter overall, offering a smoother typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Ink Black V2 may be the better choice due to its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as lighter switches are better suited for longer typing sessions, while heavier switches provide a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Salt Ice has a shorter travel distance than the Ink Black V2, making it better suited for those who prefer quicker response times and a more shallow key press. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may be more suited for those who prefer a deeper key press and a more deliberate feel. Both switches offer different experiences due to their travel distances, with the Salt Ice being the shorter option and the Ink Black V2 providing a slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 Ink Black V2 linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy profile, providing a rich and mellow tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch does not have any specific sound descriptors provided. When considering sound quality, the choice between the two switches would primarily depend on personal preference for a deeper, bass-heavy sound versus a potentially brighter and clackier tone. Additionally, the sound produced by both switches may vary depending on the user's keyboard and keycap choices.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is characterized as providing a mild and polished typing experience. This suggests that the switch offers a gentler typing feel with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, specific feel descriptors for the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch are not provided. When considering typing feel, users may prefer the Ink Black V2 for its approachable and polished qualities, or opt for the Salt Ice if they prioritize a potentially unique and lively typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches have their own distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Black V2 is praised for its smooth downstroke and rich clack sound, as well as its mild and polished typing feel, the Salt Ice stands out with exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, alongside a light touch for vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. Ultimately, the best choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If a user enjoys one switch, they may find that the other offers similar results due to their linear switch design, but with subtle differences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 or the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth downstroke with a rich clack sound, then the Ink Black V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with bright and clacky characteristics, along with a light touch and vibrant feedback, then the Salt Ice could be the perfect fit for your typing needs. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to determine which one aligns more closely with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Jerrzi Salt Ice will depend on what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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