Cherry Nixie vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Cherry Nixie and the Jerrzi Salt Ice are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics for different preferences. The Cherry Nixie is known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation from Cherry's recent MX2A update. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches stand out with their exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, complemented by a light touch for a vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. While the Nixie provides a 'Textured', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched' typing experience, the Salt Ice switch offers a different 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
63.5g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
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 housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the Jerrzi Salt Ice are different in terms of the material used. The Nixie features a nylon housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Salt Ice uses a polycarbonate housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This difference in housing materials results in distinct sound qualities when typing on the switches.
While the top housings of both the Cherry Nixie and the Jerrzi Salt Ice differ in material - nylon for the Nixie and polycarbonate for the Salt Ice - they both offer unique sound profiles. The Nixie's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and more resonant sound. Despite the difference in materials, both top housings bring their own acoustic characteristics to the typing experience, catering to different preferences based on sound preference.
In cases where the top and bottom housing materials of a switch vary, such as with the Cherry Nixie and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, the characteristics of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. This division allows for a nuanced typing experience that combines the unique qualities of both nylon and polycarbonate housing materials, providing users with a range of sound profiles to choose from based on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it becomes evident that the Nixie is heavier in both aspects. The Nixie requires an actuation force of 63.5 grams, compared to the Salt Ice's 45 grams, making it a heavier switch to type on. Additionally, the Nixie has a bottom out force of 80 grams, while the force for the Salt Ice is unknown. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for determining the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force indicates the pressure needed to fully press a key. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience to avoid fatigue during long sessions, the Salt Ice may be the ideal choice, as it requires less force to activate. Conversely, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the heavier Nixie switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Salt Ice switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Nixie switch. The Nixie with its 4 mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, while the Salt Ice at 3.4 mm is slightly shallower. Gamers may prefer the Salt Ice switch for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more satisfying keypress with more depth may opt for the Nixie switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie 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 Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deep and rich sound profile with a bass-heavy tone. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch's sound profile is not specified, so it's unclear how it compares in terms of sound. Both switches can deliver a pleasing typing experience, but if you're specifically looking for a switch with a thocky and low-pitched sound, the Cherry Nixie may be the better choice for you.
Moving on to the feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is lauded for its textured typing experience, offering a switch with noticeable friction when pressed. This texture can provide tactile feedback and a unique typing sensation. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. If you prefer switches with a textured feel for better tactility, the Cherry Nixie might be the more suitable option for you.
Overall, the Cherry Nixie linear switch stands out for its thocky, low-pitched sound profile and textured typing experience, making it a solid choice for those who enjoy a deep, rich sound and tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offers a bright and clacky sound profile with a light touch, providing a lively and responsive typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between these two switches to tailor your keyboard to your liking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a deep and low-pitched sound, the Cherry Nixie switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a bright and clacky sound, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing experience you desire and the characteristics that matter most to you.
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