Durock Light Tactile vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Light Tactile and the Jerrzi Salt Ice offer unique typing experiences. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is praised for its gentle tactility, providing a softer and more refined typing experience compared to other tactile switches on the market. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches from Jerrzi are known for their bright and clacky characteristics, offering an energetic and responsive typing experience with a light touch. While the Light Tactile switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished', the Salt Ice switch does not have specific categories listed. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using this material.
While both switches have the same polycarbonate top housing, their bottom housing materials differ, leading to variations in sound and feel. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, with the nylon bottom housing of the Light Tactile offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice. On the other hand, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches maintain a sharp and crisp sound profile thanks to their polycarbonate top housings, making them suitable for users seeking a distinct typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. Those looking for a sharper and crisper sound profile may prefer the polycarbonate top housing found in both switches. However, those seeking a deeper and fuller sound may find the nylon bottom housing of the Light Tactile more appealing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so users should consider their desired sound profile and tactile experience when making a decision between the two.
Weight
The actuation force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch is heavier than that of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, with 52 grams compared to 45 grams, respectively. However, the bottom out force of the Light Tactile is also heavier at 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Salt Ice is unknown. This means that the Durock Light Tactile switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch may offer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer typing sessions. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, with some users preferring the lighter actuation force for extended typing periods and others opting for the heavier bottom out force for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Light Tactile has a longer travel distance compared to the Salt Ice. The difference may not seem significant, but for some users, the 0.6 mm variance can impact the typing experience. Both switches fall within the realm of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being more common and 3.0 mm being on the shallower end. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly shallower feel for faster response times, the Salt Ice may be the better option. However, if you prefer more depth and feedback, the Light Tactile would be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the slight difference in travel distance may sway some users towards one switch over the other.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. The gentle tactility of the switch is complemented by a jelly-like sound signature, providing a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is known for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, creating a vibrant and energetic typing sound that is sure to make a statement. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Light Tactile being more neutral and the Salt Ice being more vibrant.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The gentle tactility of the switch allows for a softer typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch results in smooth key travel and reduced friction, further enhancing the typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is not specified in the provided information.
Overall, the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Light Tactile switch provides a gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, the Salt Ice switch offers a vibrant and clacky typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on the user's personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a gentle and smooth typing experience with a moderate actuation force, the Durock Light Tactile switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy bright, clacky feedback with a light touch for a more energetic and responsive typing experience, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so make sure to choose based on what suits you best.
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