Outemu Gold vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold 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 Gold and the Jerrzi Salt Ice are two popular options that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Gold is a clicky switch, known for its precise tactile feedback and audible click sound. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click. While the Gold switch is ideal for those who enjoy the satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Salt Ice switch appeals to users who prefer a quieter typing experience with a light touch. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Gold and Jerrzi Salt Ice feature a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiffer plastic, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, while both switches share this characteristic in their top housing, their bottom housings differ significantly. The Gold utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound profile, complementing the characteristics of its top housing.
The choice of housing material plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of a mechanical switch. With the Outemu Gold's blend of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, typists can experience a well-rounded sound profile that offers both crispness and depth. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice's decision to use polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing results in a consistent sharp and resonant sound quality throughout the typing experience. While both switches aim to create an enhanced auditory experience, the contrasting housing materials lead to distinct characteristics in how the switches sound and feel under operation.
Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Gold and Jerrzi Salt Ice will come down to personal preference regarding the sound and feel of the switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing for a sharper and crisper sound profile, the difference in their bottom housing materials means that users can choose between a deeper, fuller sound with the Gold or a consistently sharp and resonant sound with the Salt Ice. Whether you prefer a blend of crispness and depth or a more uniform sound profile, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is evident that they both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Outemu Gold clicky switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch, which has an unknown bottom out force. This difference in bottom out force may result in the Outemu Gold switch feeling more substantial when typing, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch could provide a lighter typing experience. Overall, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preference - those who prefer a lighter typing feel may opt for the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch, while those who prefer a slightly heavier push may lean towards the Outemu Gold switch.
Travel distance
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered the most traditional distance. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Gamers tend to prefer switches with shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Salt Ice a popular choice for gaming. However, some users may find the shorter distance to feel abrupt, in which case the Gold switch with its longer travel distance might be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired feel when typing or gaming.
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 Gold 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 Gold clicky switch is highly regarded for its None quality, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is celebrated for its bright and clacky feel, offering a satisfying and light touch for typing enthusiasts. When it comes to sound, the Gold switch's characteristics are unknown, while the Salt Ice switch is known for its vibrant feedback. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used. As for the feel, the specific qualities of the Gold switch are unspecified, and the Salt Ice switch is recognized for its effortless actuation. Ultimately, both switches provide unique experiences, with the Gold offering an unknown quality and the Salt Ice delivering a bright and clacky sensation, making them excellent choices for users looking for distinct typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, the Outemu Gold clicky switch would be ideal for you if you are looking for a medium bottom out force and are seeking a balance between tactile feedback and audible clickiness. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch would be a great choice if you prefer a lighter touch and are looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the feel, sound, and typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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