Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Jerrzi Salt Ice offer distinct yet appealing characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Gateron Magnetic Jade is a Hall Effect switch, renowned for its bright and clacky sound profile, making it an ideal option for those wanting to elevate their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard experience with superior acoustics and tactile feedback. This switch is often favored by enthusiasts looking for a unique combination of auditory satisfaction and performance. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is a linear switch, celebrated for its exceptionally lively feedback and effortless actuation, designed for those who prioritize a smooth and responsive typing experience with less resistance. Both switches present compelling advantages: the Magnetic Jade for its acoustic richness and the Salt Ice for its energetic feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches, it becomes clear that both top housings are made from polycarbonate, resulting in similar acoustic properties. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This shared material choice ensures that both switches will exhibit a clear and resonant sound when used, particularly beneficial for RGB lighting setups due to the housing's translucency. Aesthetically and functionally, users can expect a consistent experience from the top housing of these two switches, leading to vibrant lighting effects and a pronounced auditory feedback.
However, the differentiation arises in the bottom housing material, where the Magnetic Jade utilizes nylon while the Salt Ice sticks with polycarbonate. Nylon, being a comparatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This characteristic contrasts with the Salt Ice's bottom housing, which, being made from the same polycarbonate as the top, reinforces the crisper sound signature across the entire switch. Consequently, while the Magnetic Jade provides a rounded auditory experience through its nylon bottom, the Salt Ice offers a snappier and more definitive sound, amplifying the distinct qualities associated with polycarbonate both above and below.
The combination of these materials directly influences the overall sound experience of each switch. For the Magnetic Jade, one can expect to feel a more plush typing experience due to its nylon's absorption capabilities, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, users of the Jerrzi Salt Ice will enjoy the heightened clarity created by the polycarbonate throughout, leading to a more cohesive sound profile with a sharp response both on actuation and release. Thus, while both switches harness polycarbonate for the top housing, their bottom materials significantly shape their individual auditory and tactile experiences, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces, which can impact typing and gaming experiences. The Magnetic Jade features an actuation force of 30 grams, which classifies it as medium-light, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a lighter switch that allows for more comfortable typing over extended periods. In contrast, the Salt Ice has a significantly higher actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a heavier switch that provides a more substantial feel, appealing to those who enjoy a firmer push when typing. However, while the bottom out force for the Magnetic Jade is 55 grams, the bottom out force for the Salt Ice remains unspecified, which leaves some ambiguity regarding the total pressure required to fully press the switch down. Overall, users seeking a lighter switch experience would gravitate towards the Gateron Magnetic Jade, while those who prefer a heavier typing experience might find the Jerrzi Salt Ice more appealing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that the Magnetic Jade offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Salt Ice measures at 3.4 mm. Although the difference is minimal, those who favor a more responsive keypress may appreciate the slightly shorter Salt Ice switch, as it can contribute to faster reaction times, particularly beneficial in gaming scenarios. Conversely, the Magnetic Jade, with its longer travel distance, might appeal to users who enjoy a deeper, more tactile feel when typing, providing a bit more resistance before bottoming out. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for responsiveness versus tactile depth.
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 Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 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 Magnetic Jade switches produce a bright and clacky tone that is well-suited for enhancing the auditory experience of a mechanical keyboard, particularly in a Wooting Hall Effect setup. This resonance adds character and liveliness to each keystroke, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate an engaging auditory feedback while typing. Similarly, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches also bear distinctive bright and clacky sound traits, emphasizing their vibrant acoustic profile. Both switches promise to deliver an energetic sound signature, although the specific acoustics may vary slightly depending on the keyboard and keycap combinations used.
When it comes to feel, the Magnetic Jade switches offer a superior typing experience thanks to their thoughtful engineering, designed for comfortable and satisfying feedback. Users often note this switch’s unique responsiveness, which can enhance typing skills and overall enjoyment. The Salt Ice switches parallel this with their characteristic light touch, providing a seamless actuation that contributes to a lively and engaging response. This effortless feedback fosters an energetic typing experience, making it ideal for users who value a dynamic interaction with their keyboard.
Collectively, both the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches promise a bright and clacky sound profile, fostering an energetic typing atmosphere. In feel, while the Magnetic Jade focuses on a superior tactile experience, the Salt Ice excels in providing a light and responsive actuation. Ultimately, both options cater to users seeking enhanced acoustics and dynamic feedback, ensuring a compelling keyboard experience regardless of choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, your choice should be guided by your desired typing experience and acoustic preferences. If you appreciate a medium-light actuation force and desire a bright, clacky sound profile, the Magnetic Jade switch is an excellent option. It provides a more traditional type of tactile feedback that many typists find satisfying, especially if you're upgrading a Wooting Hall Effect keyboard for enhanced acoustics and responsiveness. On the other hand, if you lean towards an exceptionally light touch and prioritize an energetic typing experience with effortless actuation, the Salt Ice would be more suitable. The vibrant feedback and ultra-responsive nature of the Salt Ice switches create a lively typing atmosphere, perfect for those who enjoy a nimble and playful feel while typing. Ultimately, your preference for sound, feel, and actuation force will determine the best switch for your unique typing style.
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