Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note their key differences in sound and feel. The MX Silent Red offers a quiet typing experience while maintaining the satisfying feel of the MX Red, making it a great choice for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches provide a bright and clacky typing experience with a light touch, perfect for those seeking energetic and responsive feedback. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, making them appealing options for a variety of users. 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
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, one can see distinct differences in their sound profiles. The MX Silent Red utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Salt Ice features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is more clear and resonant. The choice between these two materials can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with nylon providing a duller, rounder sound and polycarbonate offering a crisper, more precise sound.
Aesthetically, the differences between the two housing materials are also notable. The translucent nature of polycarbonate used in the Salt Ice allows for RGB lighting to shine through, creating a visually appealing effect. On the other hand, the opaque nature of nylon in the MX Silent Red may not offer the same visual excitement but still provides a classic and reliable switch housing material. Depending on personal preference and the desired aesthetic of the keyboard, users may choose one material over the other for both performance and visual reasons.
Despite the differences in sound and aesthetics, both the Cherry MX Silent Red and Jerrzi Salt Ice offer high-quality switch housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience. While their sound profiles may differ due to the properties of nylon and polycarbonate, both materials are known for their durability and reliability in switches. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both options provide excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for top-notch housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that the two switches have identical actuation forces of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. In terms of weight, both switches offer a light actuation force, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. While some may prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience, both the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches provide a light and comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, we find that the Cherry MX Silent Red has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Salt Ice has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Salt Ice has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Cherry MX Silent Red. Shorter travel distances are often favored by gamers seeking faster response times, while longer travel distances may provide a more satisfying key press for some users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding key feel and response time. Both switches offer a similar typing experience overall, but the Cherry MX Silent Red may feel slightly softer due to its longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red switch offers a muted and thocky typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, providing a quieter alternative to the standard MX Red switch. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is known for its bright and clacky sound, creating a more energetic and vibrant typing atmosphere. Due to the subjective nature of sound preferences, users who prefer a quieter and softer typing experience may lean towards the MX Silent Red, while those who enjoy a more lively and tactile typing sound may gravitate towards the Salt Ice.
Moving on to the feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is noted for its textured feel, which may provide users with a unique tactile sensation compared to smoother switches. However, the specific feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is not specified in the information provided. The preference for switch feel can vary greatly among users, with some preferring a more textured and tactile experience, while others may opt for a smoother and friction-free typing feel.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Silent Red and Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches offer distinctive sound profiles and potentially different tactile feels. While the MX Silent Red provides a quieter and slightly textured typing experience, the Salt Ice switch is praised for its bright and clacky sound without information on its specific feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to tailor their typing experience to their liking. If a quieter sound profile and textured feel are desired, the MX Silent Red may be the preferred choice, while those seeking a more vibrant and energetic sound may opt for the Jerrzi Salt Ice. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience based on personal preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the Cherry MX Silent Red or the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prioritize a silent typing experience in a noise-sensitive setting, the MX Silent Red is the way to go with its muted, thocky sound profile. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more vibrant and clacky typing experience with light actuation, the Salt Ice switches offer a bright and energetic feel. Consider your sound and feel preferences when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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