Dareu Master vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Dareu Master and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches with unique features that cater to different preferences. The Master switch from Dareu offers a medium weight and a classic clacky sound signature, providing smooth operation. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches from Jerrzi are known for their bright and clacky characteristics, paired with a light touch for a vibrant and responsive typing experience. While the Master switch leans towards a polished and mild typing experience, the Salt Ice switch offers an energetic and lively feel. 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and the Jerrzi Salt Ice both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, with the Master using POM and the Salt Ice using polycarbonate. The POM top housing of the Master creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Salt Ice produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This difference in sound profile can affect the overall typing experience, catering to different preferences based on the user's sound preference. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Salt Ice allows for RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Dareu Master and Jerrzi Salt Ice utilize POM and polycarbonate respectively. The POM bottom housing of the Master creates a deep and muted sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice produces a crisper and more resonant sound profile. This difference in sound can impact the typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The material used for the bottom housing can make a significant difference in the overall typing experience, depending on the user's preferences.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. While the Dareu Master and Jerrzi Salt Ice both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, the use of POM in the Master and polycarbonate in the Salt Ice caters to different preferences. The transparency of polycarbonate in the Salt Ice also allows for RGB lighting, providing an aesthetic element to the switch. Whether you prefer a deeper and muted sound profile with POM or a sharper and crisper sound profile with polycarbonate, both switches offer distinct typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that they require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. As for the bottom out force, both switches have an unknown measurement. This means that in terms of actuation force, users can expect similar results when typing on either switch. In terms of weight, neither switch is lighter or heavier than the other, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch or a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Dareu Master and the Jerrzi Salt Ice will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is looking for.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will feel a consistent travel distance of 3.4 mm. This similarity ensures that the typing experience with both switches will be comparable in terms of keypress feel and feedback. It's worth noting that having the same travel distance can lead to consistent typing performance and muscle memory development for users who switch between keyboards equipped with either of these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 Dareu Master switch offers a classic clacky sound signature that is sharp and snappy, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is known for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, giving users a vibrant feedback with an energetic typing sound. Both switches offer a unique sound profile, with the Master being more medium-weight and the Salt Ice having a lighter touch, providing users with different auditory experiences to suit their preferences.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Master switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, making it a comfortable option for most users. The Jerrzi Salt Ice switch, while lacking specific descriptors for feel, is known for its light touch which complements its bright and clacky sound. It provides an effortless actuation for a responsive typing experience, giving users a distinct feel compared to the Master switch.
Overall, both the Dareu Master linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Master switch provides a medium-weight clacky sound with a mild and polished feel, offering a classic and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch delivers exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics with a light touch, giving users an energetic and responsive typing feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results in terms of quality regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences. If you value a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking an energetic and responsive typing experience with bright and clacky characteristics, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Choose the switch that resonates with your preferences and enhances your typing pleasure.
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