Outemu Cream Blue vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue and the Jerrzi Salt Ice offer distinct typing experiences. The Cream Blue is a clicky switch, known for its crisp tactile feedback and audible clicking sound upon actuation. On the other hand, the Salt Ice is a linear switch, prized for its smooth keystrokes and quiet operation. The Cream Blue is ideal for those who enjoy the satisfying clicky feel and auditory feedback while typing, while the Salt Ice is perfect for users who prefer a quieter, more seamless typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The main difference between the Outemu Cream Blue and the Jerrzi Salt Ice lies in the materials used for their housing components. The Cream Blue utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and rounder sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, creating a duller but fuller sound. On the other hand, the Salt Ice features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate produces a more clear and resonant sound, emphasizing higher pitches.
Despite their differences, both the Cream Blue and the Salt Ice have their unique advantages when it comes to housing materials. The nylon housing of the Cream Blue provides a deeper typing sound, ideal for those who prefer a softer and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the Salt Ice offers a sharper and crisper typing experience, perfect for those looking for a more clear and resonant sound. While the materials may vary, both switches excel in creating a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences.
When it comes to sound and feel, the housing materials of the Cream Blue and the Salt Ice play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, with the Cream Blue's nylon providing a deeper impact compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate for a softer bottom-out experience. Conversely, the top housing affects the sound when lifting a key, with the Cream Blue delivering a rounder sound due to nylon's sound absorption properties, while the Salt Ice offers a crisper sound thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Ultimately, the choice between the Cream Blue and the Salt Ice will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, the Cream Blue has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Salt Ice's actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Cream Blue also has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Salt Ice is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Salt Ice may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Cream Blue may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option. The Cream Blue offers a more traditional and deeper key press experience, while the Salt Ice provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may favor the Cream Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience you are looking to achieve.
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 Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is known to provide a crisp and audible click with each keystroke, offering a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is recognized for a bright and clacky sound profile, giving off a lively and energetic typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound signatures that can enhance the overall typing experience, especially when paired with different keyboard and keycap combinations.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Cream Blue switch offers a tactile bump along with the audible click, providing a tactile response that some users may find engaging. In comparison, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump, making it ideal for users who prefer a seamless typing experience. The differences in feel between these two switches cater to different preferences, whether you enjoy the tactile feedback of a clicky switch or the smooth actuation of a linear switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch depends on personal preference. If you prefer a tactile bump and audible click, the Cream Blue may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth and consistent typing experience without any tactile feedback, the Salt Ice may be more suited to your preferences. With the wide variety of mechanical keyboard switches available, it's essential to consider factors such as sound, feel, and overall typing experience to find the perfect switch for your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switches and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches, your decision will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky typing experience with vibrant feedback, then the Cream Blue switches may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a light touch with bright and clacky characteristics without the need for a bottom out force, then the Salt Ice switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so make sure to consider your typing habits and preferences before making a decision.
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