Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Jerrzi Salt Ice offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Dustproof Blue switch is renowned for None, while the Salt Ice switch stands out for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, along with a light touch. The Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch, providing audible feedback with each keystroke, ideal for those who enjoy the satisfying sound of typing. On the other hand, the Salt Ice is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience without the audible click, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches, it is clear that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for incorporating RGB lighting into the switches. However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Dustproof Blue utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Salt Ice employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing a sharper and clearer sound profile characteristic of the material's stiffness.
In terms of sound and feel, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. With the Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing, users can expect a deeper and rounder sound when pressing down on the switch. This creates a more subdued bottom-out sound and feel compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing which emphasizes a clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material, in this case, polycarbonate for both switches, will have a more pronounced impact on the sound when releasing a key. This results in a crisper sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate's stiffness.
Overall, while both the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, their differences lie in the bottom housing materials. The Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing enhances the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing prioritizes clarity and resonance. Understanding the roles each housing material plays in the switch's sound profile can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, the actuation force of the Dustproof Blue is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Salt Ice is slightly lighter at 45 grams. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, but the Dustproof Blue has a bottom out force of 65 grams, indicating it is heavier than the Salt Ice in that aspect. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Salt Ice may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Dustproof Blue with its heavier bottom out force may be preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Dustproof Blue has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for some users. On the other hand, the Salt Ice offers a shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times and may be preferred by gamers looking for quick key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether you prioritize depth and tactility or quickness and responsiveness in your typing experience. Both switches offer a different feel due to their travel distances, but both can provide a satisfactory typing experience depending on the user's preferences.
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 Dustproof 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
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is best known for its clicky sound and tactile bump when typing, providing a satisfying and pronounced feedback to users. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without the audible click, giving a quieter typing experience suited for those who prefer a more subtle feel.
When it comes to sound, the Dustproof Blue switch produces a loud and clicky sound, which can be satisfying for some users but disruptive in certain environments. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch is known for its sharp and clacky sound that adds to the overall typing experience without being overly loud.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Blue switch offers a tactile bump and satisfying click with every press, providing users with a clear indication of actuation. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch offers a smooth and linear keystroke without any tactile bump, allowing for a more consistent and fluid typing experience.
Overall, while both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a loud and clicky typing experience with a tactile bump, the Dustproof Blue switch may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience without the tactile feedback, the Salt Ice switch could be the better option for you. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different boards and keycaps will help you determine which one suits your typing style best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch or the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, you should opt for the Dustproof Blue if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch that offers a satisfying clicky sound. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch would be the better choice for you if you enjoy a light touch, bright and clacky characteristics, and vibrant feedback while typing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
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