PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jerrzi Salt Ice are two options that offer unique features and benefits. The Jacaranda, a linear switch manufactured by KTT, is well-known for its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers and ideal for fatigue-free typing. Its clacky sound signature and extended 22mm spring provide a bouncy sensation with each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are praised for their bright and clacky characteristics, paired with a light touch for effortless actuation. These switches are perfect for users looking for an energetic and responsive typing experience. Both switches have their strengths and appeal, but you may want to dive deeper into their specific qualities to choose the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
39g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, we see that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Jacaranda stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Salt Ice uses a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing a sharper and crisper sound profile like its top housing.
Despite having different bottom housings, both the Jacaranda and the Salt Ice keyboards still offer a unique typing experience. The qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, influencing the sound and feel of pressing down and letting go of keys differently. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This diversification in housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience that caters to different preferences and typing styles.
While the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jerrzi Salt Ice keyboards have their differences in housing materials, they both ultimately aim to enhance the typing experience for users. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a sharper and crisper sound profile, which is ideal for those seeking a clear and resonant typing experience. However, the choice of nylon for the Jacaranda's bottom housing adds a depth and fullness to the sound profile that differs from the Salt Ice's all-polycarbonate construction. Whether one prefers a softer, more absorbing typing experience or a sharper, more pronounced sound, both keyboards offer a unique and tailored typing experience.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch with a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Jacaranda switch requires 45 grams to bottom out, while the Salt Ice switch does not have a specified bottom out force. This means that the Jacaranda switch offers a consistent and light typing experience, while the Salt Ice switch may provide a slightly heavier feel with the actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience for their keyboard.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda 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 individuals seeking a fast response time, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be significant enough to notice a tangible difference in feel between the two switches. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for a slightly shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, thanks to its crisp feedback and distinct bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is known for its exceptionally bright and clacky sound, providing an energetic typing experience. Both switches deliver a satisfying auditory experience, but the Jacaranda may have a slightly sharper and more percussive sound compared to the Salt Ice switch.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the Jacaranda is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, information on the feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is not available. It is likely that the Salt Ice switch offers a light and effortless actuation, enhancing the overall typing feel.
Overall, both the PH Studio Jacaranda and Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Jacaranda stands out with its gentle actuation force, bouncy sensation, and clacky sound, making it a comfortable and satisfying choice for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch offers a vibrant and responsive typing experience, perfect for users looking for a lively and energetic feel while typing. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a high-quality typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar impressive results in terms of performance and user satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the characteristics of each switch based on your preferences and typing style. If you value a light bottom-out force, a crisp and clacky sound profile, and a uniquely bouncy typing experience, the Jacaranda may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer exceptionally bright and clacky feedback with a light touch, the Salt Ice switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so make your decision based on what features are most important to you.
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