Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Jerrzi Salt Ice are two top contenders worth considering. The Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that offers a traditional feel with a modern twist, thanks to its single-stage spring and medium-heavy weight. On the other hand, the Salt Ice is a linear switch known for its bright and clacky characteristics, providing a light and responsive typing experience. While the Jupiter Brown is perfect for those who prefer a more classic keystroke feel, the Salt Ice is ideal for users who crave vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. 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
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Brown and Jerrzi Salt Ice both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Jupiter Brown differs with its nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature. In contrast, the Salt Ice utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sharp and crisp sound throughout.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, the Gateron Jupiter Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a distinct typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice utilizes polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, providing a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile. The choice of housing material can affect the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Jerrzi Salt Ice play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, the Jupiter Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on sound and feel can help users choose a switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Brown is the heavier option. The Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for the Salt Ice is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Salt Ice switch, as it requires less force to actuate a keystroke. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Jupiter Brown switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and overall typing experience desired.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, we can see that the Jupiter Brown has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Salt Ice's 3.4 mm. The longer travel distance of the Jupiter Brown may provide a more satisfying depth for some users, while the shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice could appeal to those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Ultimately, if you are looking for a shorter travel distance for more responsiveness, the Jerrzi Salt Ice may be the better option, but if you prefer a more substantial keypress, the Gateron Jupiter Brown could be the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Jupiter Brown tactile switch is known for its subtle and smooth typing sound, providing a quiet and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is characterized by its bright and clacky sound profile, offering a more energetic and lively typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. With a medium-heavy weight, these switches provide a gentle and refined feel, making them suitable for a wide range of users. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is known for its light touch and effortless actuation, providing a vibrant feedback that appeals to users seeking a responsive typing experience. While the exact feel of a switch is subjective and can vary based on personal preference, these descriptions give a general idea of what to expect from each switch.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Brown provides a quieter and more refined typing experience, while the Salt Ice delivers a more energetic and responsive feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, you can choose between these switches to enhance your overall typing experience. Remember, trying out different switches on different boards and keycaps can also result in a similar experience based on the qualities described.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you value a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight and high precision molds, the Jupiter Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright, clacky, and responsive typing experience with a light touch, the Salt Ice switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your desired typing feel and sound profile to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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