Gateron Mini i vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and Jerrzi Salt Ice offer contrasting experiences for users. The Mini i is a tactile switch that provides gentle tactility in each keystroke, making it ideal for office environments where a quieter typing experience is preferred. In contrast, the Salt Ice is a linear switch known for its bright and clacky characteristics, perfect for users who enjoy a more energetic and responsive typing experience. Each switch has its own unique selling points, with the Mini i offering a muted sound profile and comfortable typing, while the Salt Ice provides vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and Jerrzi Salt Ice differ in their housing materials, with the Mini i featuring a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Salt Ice utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The nylon housing of the Mini i creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Salt Ice produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, attributed to its stiffer composition leading to a more clear and resonant sound.
Despite their differences, both the Mini i and Salt Ice have unique qualities based on their housing materials. The Mini i's nylon housing provides a softer typing experience, emphasizing a deeper sound profile, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and crisper typing feel with a more resonant sound. However, if the top and bottom housings are different for a switch, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. This can impact the sound and feel of the switch depending on which part of the housing is being engaged during typing.
In terms of aesthetics, the Mini i's nylon housing contrasts with the Salt Ice's polycarbonate housing, with the former providing a classic look and the latter offering a modern, translucent appearance suitable for RGB lighting. While both housing materials have their distinct characteristics, the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch will still be influenced by the quality and composition of the housing material used. Whether nylon or polycarbonate, each material contributes to the overall performance and feel of the switch, providing users with a choice between a deeper, fuller sound profile or a sharper, crisper typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch. The Mini i requires 40 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Salt Ice needs 45 grams to actuate and the bottom out force is unknown. The lighter weight of the Mini i switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing feel for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier actuation force of the Salt Ice switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches offer options for users with different preferences in typing experiences.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.4mm. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and feedback when using either of these switches. The travel distance plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience, as it directly impacts how far the key travels when pressed. In this case, both switches offer a consistent travel distance, providing a uniform typing experience across different keyboard setups. Whether you prefer the tactile feel of the Mini i or the smooth linear action of the Salt Ice, you can expect a similar travel distance for both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for switch type rather than travel distance.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Mini i provides a neutral experience with a moderate sound profile that suits various settings, making them versatile for different users and environments. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice offers a vibrant and clacky sound that adds an energetic element to typing, ideal for those who enjoy a more lively feedback. Depending on factors like the keyboard and keycaps used, both switches can provide a satisfying auditory experience, although the Mini i leans towards a quieter sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i offers a bouncy and easy-to-press sensation with mild tactile feedback, making typing comfortable and efficient for extended periods. The Jerrzi Salt Ice's feel is not specified, but given its light and effortless actuation, it likely provides a smooth and responsive typing experience. Both switches cater to users seeking a pleasant feel while typing, with the Mini i providing a more pronounced feedback and the Salt Ice potentially offering a smoother keystroke.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mini i and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches offer distinct qualities in sound and feel, catering to different preferences in typing experience. While the Mini i excels in providing a neutral sound and bouncy feel suitable for office settings, the Salt Ice stands out with its bright and clacky sound profile and potentially smooth typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results in terms of comfort and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider your typing environment and preference for feedback. If you value a quieter typing experience with a gentle tactility for office use, the Gateron Mini i switches are an excellent choice due to their lightweight feel and subtle sound profile. On the other hand, if you seek a more lively and clacky typing experience with vibrant feedback, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches would be a standout option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing feel and sound profile that best suits your personal preferences and work environment.
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