Bsun Kiki Red vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Bsun Kiki Red and Jerrzi Salt Ice are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Kiki Red is favored for its finely-tuned typing experience, featuring a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance without being overly loud. With all-POM housings and Ly stems for smooth actuation, these switches provide a medium-light weighting that appeals to enthusiasts who value subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches stand out for their exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, paired with a light touch for vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. This makes them a top choice 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches have distinct differences in terms of the sound profiles they produce. The POM top housing of the Kiki Red offers a deeper and relatively muted sound, whereas the polycarbonate top housing of the Salt Ice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This results in a noticeable contrast in the auditory experience when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting effects, which can enhance the visual appeal of the Salt Ice switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing and the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing contribute to creating a unique sound profile for their respective switches. The POM bottom housing of the Kiki Red offers a deep and muted sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice produces a sharper and crisper sound. This distinction in sound characteristics can significantly impact the overall typing experience, as the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches may differ in terms of their specific qualities, they both serve to enhance the sound profile of the switches. Whether it be the POM top and bottom housings of the Kiki Red or the polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Salt Ice, each material contributes to creating a distinct auditory experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound characteristics and aesthetic considerations such as RGB lighting compatibility.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, the Kiki Red is the lighter option with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Salt Ice is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Salt Ice is unavailable. Both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the lighter actuation force of the Kiki Red may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Salt Ice may appeal to those who desire a more substantial and defined keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, slightly longer than the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. While both fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Kiki Red offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Salt Ice. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Kiki Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific feel desired for typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 Bsun Kiki Red linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience that is not overly loud, providing a comfortable auditory feedback for users who appreciate a crisp and bright sound without being overly disruptive. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is characterized by exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, creating a vibrant and energetic typing experience with a light touch. When comparing the two, the Kiki Red may offer a more nuanced and subtle sound profile, while the Salt Ice delivers a more lively and responsive sound experience.
Moving on to the feel, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is described as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press, providing users with a smooth and buttery typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances typing efficiency. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch's feel characteristics are unknown at this time. However, based on the Bsun Kiki Red's profile, it can be assumed that the Salt Ice linear switch may offer a similarly smooth and effortless typing experience, possibly with its own unique touch of responsiveness and comfort.
Overall, both the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Kiki Red excels in providing a balanced and nuanced sound experience while offering a smooth and responsive typing feel, making it a preferred choice for enthusiasts seeking subtlety. On the other hand, the Salt Ice stands out with its bright and clacky sound profile, promising an energetic and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect high-quality performance and tactile feedback from both switches, with the decision ultimately coming down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a finely-tuned and subtly clacky sound with medium-light weighting, smooth actuation, and a balance of auditory feedback and performance, then the Kiki Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek an exceptionally bright and clacky typing experience with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and enjoy a customized mechanical keyboard experience tailored to your needs.
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