KTT Mint vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mint and Jerrzi Salt Ice both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Mint is praised for its smooth, linear feel and a distinctive poppy thockiness that comes from its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches stand out with their bright and clacky characteristics, providing a vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. The Mint is ideal for those who prefer a light and fleeting typing experience, while the Salt Ice appeals to users seeking an energetic and responsive 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
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Mint and Jerrzi Salt Ice both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles due to the stiffness of the material. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly useful for switches intended for RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through effectively. However, while both switches share this common top housing material, they differ in their bottom housings. The Mint utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Salt Ice features a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a sharper and clearer sound profile similar to its top housing material.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, the impact of each housing material on the overall sound and feel of the switch is discernible. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, with the nylon bottom housing of the Mint contributing to a deeper and fuller sound. Meanwhile, the top housing has a more pronounced effect on the sound produced when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate top housing of both switches delivering a sharper and crisper sound profile. This split in housing materials allows for a nuanced and dynamic typing experience based on the qualities of each material.
In conclusion, the choice of housing material in mechanical keyboard switches can significantly impact the sound profile and tactile feel of the typing experience. While the KTT Mint and Jerrzi Salt Ice share a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharp and clear sound profile, their different bottom housing materials, nylon and polycarbonate respectively, lead to variations in sound depth and resonance. Understanding the roles of top and bottom housings in a switch can help users tailor their typing experience to their preferences, whether they prioritize a sharper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound.
Weight
The KTT Mint linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, the Mint has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the bottom out force of the Salt Ice is unknown. This means that the Mint is slightly heavier in terms of the force required to press all the way down. When it comes to weight preference, the Mint may be more suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier keystroke, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice's unknown bottom out force may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to the preferences of different users.
Travel distance
The KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Gamers who prefer faster response times may opt for the Salt Ice switch due to its shorter travel distance, providing a more responsive feel. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may prefer the Mint switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style, as both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances.
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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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
The KTT Mint linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a neutral actuation force, resulting in a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is known for its bright and clacky sound accompanied by a light touch, providing vibrant feedback and quick actuation for an energetic typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Mint switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle feel with smooth and refined key travel. However, information on the feel of the Salt Ice switch is currently unknown.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a linear switch with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, as well as a mild and polished typing feel, the KTT Mint switch would be a suitable choice. Conversely, if you prefer a bright and clacky sound with a light touch for an energetic typing experience, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch would be a standout option. Keep in mind that the overall typing experience is also influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps, so consider these factors when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you will receive satisfying results no matter which option you choose.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the characteristics of each to match your preferred typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth and poppy thockiness with a light touch, the Mint may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and clacky feel with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing style. Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing needs and enjoy a satisfying and responsive typing experience.
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