Outemu Silver vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Silver and the Jerrzi Salt Ice both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Silver is best known for its linear feel, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches stand out for their exceptionally bright and clacky feedback, along with a light touch that makes typing a breeze. While the Silver may appeal to those who prefer a traditional linear switch, the Salt Ice is a great choice for users seeking a more vibrant and responsive 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silver and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This means that both switches will produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant sound, making it ideal for those looking for a clear and defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the keyboard.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Salt Ice utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a sharper and clearer sound profile. This contrast in bottom housing materials means that the typing experience and sound output of the two switches will differ slightly, with the Silver providing a more rounded sound and the Salt Ice offering a crisper tone.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Silver and Jerrzi Salt Ice housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a deeper and rounder sound, the Silver with its nylon bottom housing may be more suitable for you. In contrast, if you lean towards a sharper and crisper sound, the Salt Ice with its polycarbonate bottom housing would be the better option. Both switches offer unique sound profiles and aesthetics, providing users with a variety of options to customize their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Silver has a bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the Salt Ice's bottom out force is not specified. In terms of weight, the Silver switch would be considered heavier due to its higher bottom out force. This makes the Silver switch more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch may be lighter since its bottom out force is unknown, making it a better choice for those looking for a lighter typing feel for longer typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force of each switch play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and preference for users.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silver 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 comparing the two, it is evident that the Silver switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Salt Ice switch. The difference may not be significant to all users, but for those who are more sensitive to key press depths, it may play a role in their preference. The shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Silver switch may provide a more tactile experience for those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and usage needs.
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 Silver 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 Silver linear switch is not known for any specific sound qualities, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is described as exceptionally bright and clacky. This means that the Salt Ice switch will produce a more audible typing experience compared to the Silver switch. As for feel, the Silver switch does not have a specific description, and the Salt Ice switch is known for its light touch and effortless actuation. This means that the Salt Ice switch will provide a smooth and responsive typing feel.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch that offers a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silver linear switch would be a better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more audible and energetic typing experience with a light and responsive feel, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch would be the way to go. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so it's important to consider the overall setup when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a different typing feel, the Silver switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light touch and vibrant feedback with a clacky sound, the Salt Ice switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal typing style and the experience you desire from your mechanical keyboard. Choose the switch that best fits your needs and preferences.
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