Outemu Purple vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Purple, a tactile switch, and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, a linear switch. The Outemu Purple switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing users with a satisfying bump when pressed. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is praised for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, offering a unique and vibrant typing experience. While the Purple switch offers a tactile feel, the Salt Ice switch provides a smooth and linear actuation. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
N/A
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
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
Both the Outemu Purple and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the Outemu Purple also includes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
The difference in bottom housing material between the Outemu Purple and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches affects the overall sound and feel of typing on each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Purple contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice results in a sharper and crisper sound. When typing on these switches, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with varying sound profiles.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Purple and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials. While they both feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and resonant sound, the difference in bottom housing material sets them apart. The Purple's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing delivers a crisper sound. Whether you prefer a rounder sound with the Purple or a sharper sound with the Salt Ice, the choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Purple tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch with an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Purple switch will require a slightly heavier push to register a keystroke. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it is unclear which one would provide a more substantial typing experience in terms of pressing all the way down. In terms of weight, the Purple switch is on the heavier side, which may appeal to users looking for a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch is lighter, making it ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Purple switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Salt Ice switch. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Purple switch is more traditional, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on a key, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.4mm travel distance of the Salt Ice switch is slightly shorter and may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distance, so the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference regarding typing feel and responsiveness.
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 Purple 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 Purple switch is known for its tactile feedback, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch stands out for its bright and clacky feel. The Purple switch has a smooth and tactile bump when pressed, providing a satisfying feel for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch offers a smooth linear feel, allowing for fast and effortless typing with a light touch.
When it comes to sound, the Purple switch is known to have a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for both office and gaming environments. The Salt Ice switch, on the other hand, has a louder and more distinctive clacky sound, adding an energetic element to typing sessions. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material being used.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Purple switch caters to those who prefer a tactile typing experience with a moderate sound profile, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is ideal for users looking for a bright and clacky linear switch with a quick and responsive feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so choosing between the two will ultimately depend on your personal preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy one, you are likely to find that the other will provide similar overall results in typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a tactile bump for feedback and a distinctive typing experience, the Outemu Purple switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth and linear typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is a great option. Consider your typing preferences, whether you prioritize feedback or smoothness, and the overall feel and sound you're looking for in a switch. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing needs and preferences.
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