Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, it is important to consider their unique characteristics. The Gateron Ink Yellow is favored for its shorter travel distance, offering a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Known for its smoothness and clackiness, this switch is ideal for those looking for a polished yet satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches are celebrated for their bright and clacky attributes, paired with a light touch. With vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, these switches are perfect for users seeking 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, both switches utilize different types of materials for their top and bottom housings. The INK blend top and bottom housing of the Ink Yellow provide a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Salt Ice features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials result in a clear and resonant sound, the INK blend offers a unique sound profile, while the polycarbonate provides a more traditional mechanical keyboard sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the INK blend housing of the Ink Yellow does not offer the translucency of the polycarbonate housing in the Salt Ice. The clear polycarbonate housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboard. Additionally, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile compared to the INK blend, which may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced and sharp sound. Overall, the housing materials of these switches cater to different preferences in both sound and visual aesthetics.
Although both switches provide unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, the impact of each material is felt differently when typing. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. This difference highlights how the choice of housing material can subtly alter the overall typing experience, whether it be the clacky and pointed sound of the INK blend in the Ink Yellow or the crisp and sharp sound of the polycarbonate in the Salt Ice. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in both sound and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Gateron Ink Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing feel. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The difference in weight between the two switches offers distinct advantages to users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Jerrzi Salt Ice for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Ink Yellow for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers. The shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice may provide a slightly faster and more responsive feel compared to the Ink Yellow. However, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so the overall feel when typing or gaming is likely to be quite similar. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference for the subtle difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow 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 Yellow for $7.35.
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 Yellow linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various typing needs. It also provides a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive when pressed, adding a satisfying tactile feedback to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch does not have a specific sound description provided, but it is noted to be exceptionally bright and clacky, offering a vibrant feedback that enhances the typing experience. Both switches can deliver an enjoyable sound profile depending on the accompanying keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch provides a mild typing experience with gentle characteristics that appeal to a wide range of users. Its polished finish results in smooth key travel and reduced friction, ensuring a sleek typing experience. The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch does not have a specific feel description provided, but it is mentioned to offer a light touch that complements its bright and clacky sound profile. While the specific tactile qualities of the Salt Ice switch are not detailed, it can be inferred that it provides a responsive and effortless actuation for an energetic typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is best suited for those who prefer a pleasant smoothness and clackiness in their typing experience, with a moderate sound profile and gentle feel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch stands out with its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, offering vibrant feedback and a light touch for a responsive typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smoother, clacky typing experience reminiscent of a laptop keyboard, the Gateron Ink Yellow would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you desire a switch with a bright, clacky sound profile and a light touch for energetic and responsive typing, the Jerrzi Salt Ice would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for actuation force, typing feel, and sound characteristics.
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