Dareu Mahjong vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Dareu Mahjong and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Mahjong and Jerrzi Salt Ice are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics for typing enthusiasts. The Mahjong switches from Dareu present a lively and poppy sound signature, combined with an effortless typing experience due to their 'Bouncy', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Polished' categorization. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches from Jerrzi stand out with their exceptionally bright and clacky feedback, complemented by a light touch which makes typing feel energetic and responsive. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Mahjong and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Mahjong's POK top housing offers smoothness, durability, and a clacky feel, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile and is aesthetically beneficial for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Mahjong's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile.
Despite these differences, both switches share some similarities in their housing materials. For instance, both the POK material of the Mahjong and the polycarbonate material of the Salt Ice are known for their durability and strength. Additionally, both materials have unique acoustic properties that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. While the Mahjong focuses on a smooth and clacky feel with its POK top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Salt Ice prioritizes a sharper, crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate housings.
Overall, the choice between the Dareu Mahjong and the Jerrzi Salt Ice ultimately comes down to the desired typing experience and sound profile. While the Mahjong offers a smoother and clackier feel with its POK and nylon housing materials, the Salt Ice provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile with its polycarbonate housings. Both switches excel in different areas based on their housing materials, providing users with a variety of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
Both the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom-out force for both switches is unknown. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the initial force needed to register a keystroke. The decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of weight. Some users may appreciate the lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer a heavier feel for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, both switches offer the same actuation force, so users can expect similar results in that aspect. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to other factors such as price, availability, and overall feel during use.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and actuation regardless of which switch you choose. Ultimately, both switches offer a consistent and predictable typing experience with a travel distance that is neither longer nor shorter than the other.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 Mahjong linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, whether beginners or advanced, at home or in the office. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch's sound characteristics are not specified, so it is difficult to compare the two in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Mahjong linear switch offers a bouncy and lively typing experience with a spring-like feedback that provides a sense of rebound when pressed. Additionally, the switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience, and polished for smoother key travel. In contrast, the feel of the Salt Ice linear switch is not provided, making it challenging to directly compare the two switches in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
Given the information provided, it is evident that the Mahjong and Salt Ice linear switches each possess unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Mahjong switch is known for its lively sound and bouncy feel, the Salt Ice switch stands out with its bright and clacky sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If a user prefers a more neutral sound and bouncy feel, the Mahjong switch would be the optimal choice. However, for those seeking a more energetic and responsive typing experience with vibrant feedback, the Salt Ice switch may be the preferred option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Mahjong linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the specific characteristics and preferences that you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you are looking for a unique and lively typing experience with a poppy sound signature, the Mahjong switches may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and clacky typing experience with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice switches might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual typing style and what features you value most in a switch.
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