SP-Star Meteor White vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a unique typing experience. The Meteor White is known for its gentle linear feel, making it easy to push and producing a soft, pitter-patter sound profile. This switch is best described as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. On the other hand, the Salt Ice stands out for its bright and clacky characteristics, combined with a light touch for effortless actuation. Users who prefer a vibrant feedback and responsive typing experience will appreciate the Salt Ice switch. 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
57g
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
Nylon
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor White features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The differences in sound profiles between the two housing materials suggest that typing on the Meteor White may offer a more mellow and rounder typing experience, while typing on the Salt Ice may provide a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate material of the Salt Ice allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switch.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Jerrzi Salt Ice follow the same pattern as the top housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Meteor White contributes to the switch's overall deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice creates a sharper and crisper sound. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will vary depending on the material used, with the softer nylon possibly offering a more cushioned typing experience compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
In considering the overall typing experience of switches with different housing materials for the top and bottom, it is evident that each material plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switch. While the nylon top and bottom housings of the Meteor White may provide a consistent and mellow typing experience, the polycarbonate housings of the Salt Ice offer a sharper and crisper sound profile. The impact of each housing material on the sound when pressing down or releasing a key further highlights the importance of material choice in creating a unique typing experience. Ultimately, whether using nylon or polycarbonate, both switches aim to provide high-quality sound profiles tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch both have unique characteristics when it comes to actuation and bottom out force. The Meteor White switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly lighter. The actuation force of the Meteor White switch is not specified, while the bottom out force of the Salt Ice switch is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Salt Ice switch may be the preferred choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Meteor White switch with its higher bottom out force may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Meteor White offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Salt Ice, making it the longer option between the two. A longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and in-depth typing experience for some users, as it allows for a greater sense of keypress feedback. On the other hand, the Salt Ice's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking a quicker response time, such as gamers who prioritize speed and efficiency in their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user, with each offering a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a neutral and thocky sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. The sound produced is moderate yet satisfying, with a deep and rich tone akin to a soft "knock" when pressed. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is known for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, providing a vibrant feedback with an energetic and responsive typing experience. The sound of both switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Meteor White switch delivers a mild and polished typing experience. The switch offers a gentle feel that is approachable to most users, with a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This is achieved through reduced friction and smooth key travel, making typing on these switches comfortable and enjoyable. As for the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch, information on its specific feel characteristics is unknown.
Taking all the available information into account, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is best suited for those looking for a soft, easy to push switch with a gentle sound profile and a mild, polished feel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch caters to users seeking a bright, clacky switch with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, providing users with a variety of options to choose from based on their typing preferences and needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a softer, more subdued typing experience with a gentle sound profile, the Meteor White may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more vibrant and clacky typing experience with bright feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for both typing feel and sound.
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