KTT Laurel vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Laurel and Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique features and benefits. The Laurel, a medium-light linear switch, stands out for its full POM housing, short travel, long pole design, and subtly low-pitched sound profile. It strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it a great choice for those who prioritize a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are known for their bright and clacky characteristics, with a light touch and vibrant feedback. This makes them ideal for users looking for 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Laurel features a POM top housing, which is known for creating a deep and muted sound profile, while the Salt Ice has a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. The POM bottom housing of the Laurel also contributes to its unique sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice enhances its clarity and resonance. Despite the different materials used, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
One key difference between the housing materials of the Laurel and the Salt Ice lies in their sound profiles. The POM housings of the Laurel create a deep and pleasing sound, with a more muted tone, while the polycarbonate housings of the Salt Ice produce a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile in the Salt Ice switch. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Salt Ice's housing allows for RGB lighting effects, whereas the opaque nature of POM in the Laurel's housing may limit lighting options.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Jerrzi Salt Ice play a significant role in shaping the sound profiles of these switches. While both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, such as the muted and deep sound of POM in the Laurel and the sharp and crisp sound of polycarbonate in the Salt Ice, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. Whether one prefers a deeper and more muted sound or a sharper and crisper sound, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that the Laurel is the lighter of the two. The Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Salt Ice has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Laurel requires 50 grams to bottom out, while the Salt Ice force is unknown. The Laurel switch provides a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for those who prefer a less strenuous feel when typing for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Salt Ice may offer a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel 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 choices for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. The Laurel may provide a slightly deeper keypress feel compared to the Salt Ice due to its longer travel distance, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of how much travel distance is preferred for typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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
The KTT Laurel linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, which typically results in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch does not have a specific description of its sound characteristics provided. Moving on to feel, the Laurel switch is noted for being snappy, indicating a super responsive typing experience that feels more alive, potentially due to its longer or dual-staged springs. Again, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch does not have a description of its feel provided. It is important to consider that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used. Overall, while the Laurel linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy feel, the specific sound and feel qualities of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch remain unknown. However, both switches are linear in operation, so you can expect a similar smooth keystroke experience in terms of actuation and lack of tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider your preference for bottom-out force and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams and a more subtle low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with bright and clacky characteristics, alongside vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice switch would be a great fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on which features align best with your typing preferences and overall typing experience.
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