Gateron Melodic vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, there are distinct differences in their characteristics and typing experience. The Gateron Melodic stands out for its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing a buttery feel and invigorating, crunchy sound. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice is praised for its bright and clacky feedback, offering a light touch and effortless actuation. Each switch caters to different preferences, with the Melodic appealing to those who enjoy a classic clicky sound, while the Salt Ice suits users seeking a vibrant 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Melodic and the Jerrzi Salt Ice feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through for a visually appealing effect. The similarities in top housing material suggest that users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetics from both switches in this regard.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Melodic utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for being softer and absorbing more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that when typing on the Melodic, users may experience a more muted and slightly softer bottom-out sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. These differences in bottom housing materials can contribute to varying typing experiences between the two switches.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and differing bottom housing materials in the Gateron Melodic and Jerrzi Salt Ice impacts the overall sound profile and typing feel of each switch. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, the variation in bottom housing materials allows for distinct sound characteristics. Users can appreciate the unique qualities of each switch based on how the materials interact to create a specific typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is clear that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Melodic switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, offering a more responsive typing experience. The bottom out force of the Salt Ice switch is unknown, making it difficult to assess its overall weight. Generally, a lighter actuation force is preferred for extended typing sessions, while a heavier bottom out force can provide a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and performance.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Salt Ice switch the shorter option compared to the Melodic switch. The shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice switch may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Melodic switch with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference. Whether you go for the shorter Salt Ice switch or the longer Melodic switch, you will still get a reliable and high-quality mechanical keyboard experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile and clean, sharp clicks reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch seems to have no available description of its sound qualities. However, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing sound depending on your keyboard setup, keycaps, and personal preference.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Melodic switch is known for providing a buttery and invigorating typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke along with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force. These features create a seamless, effortless, and immersive typing sensation for users. Unfortunately, there is no available description of the feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch. Despite this, it is safe to assume that it provides a smooth, linear feel with consistent actuation for a comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch stands out for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, coupled with a buttery and invigorating tactile feel, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with audible feedback. While information regarding the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch's sound and feel is limited, it is safe to assume that it also offers a unique and enjoyable typing experience, potentially suited for those who prefer a smooth and light touch while typing. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force, a classic clicky sound, and smooth tactile feedback, the Gateron Melodic switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light touch, exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, and effortless actuation, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch may be more suited to your typing needs. Consider what sound and feel you are looking for in a keyboard switch, and make your decision based on that. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing experience.
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