Outemu Tom vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Tom and the Jerrzi Salt Ice offer users distinct typing experiences. The Tom, a tactile switch, is best known for its unique None feature, while the Salt Ice, a linear switch, stands out with its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics. The Salt Ice switches are favored for their vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, making them a great choice for users seeking an energetic and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Tom switch provides a different tactile feel that some users may prefer. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Tom and the Jerrzi Salt Ice utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy a crisp typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for showcasing RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
While the Tom features a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Salt Ice opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing for a sharper and crisper sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the clearer and more resonant sound profile facilitated by polycarbonate. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, emphasizing different aspects of sound depending on the switch used.
The choice of housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch plays a crucial role in the overall sound and feel of typing. With different materials for the top and bottom housing, the qualities of each material will be divided between the press and release of a key. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the impact of these materials can help users select switches that cater to their preferred typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Tom switch requires more force to register a keystroke. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, so it is unclear how much force is needed to fully press the keys down. In terms of weight, the Salt Ice switch is lighter with its lower actuation force, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the Tom switch's higher actuation force provides a more substantial typing feel, catering to users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and desired actuation force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. While the difference between the two distances may seem minimal, it can have an impact on the typing or gaming experience. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Tom switch, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Salt Ice switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, catering to the increasing demand for more responsive mechanical switches in the market. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming style.
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 Tom 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Tom tactile switch is known for its quiet and subtle typing experience, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more discreet keyboard. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is characterized by its loud and crisp sound, providing users with a satisfyingly clicky typing experience. When it comes to sound, the Tom and Salt Ice switches offer contrasting auditory experiences, allowing users to choose based on their preference for noise levels while typing.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Tom tactile switch offers a bump in the middle of the key press, providing tactile feedback to the user. This feature allows for a satisfying typing experience, especially for those who prefer a bit of resistance while typing. In comparison, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch provides a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump, offering a seamless typing experience for users who prefer a linear feel. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, catering to different preferences in terms of typing feedback.
In conclusion, the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Tom provides a quieter and more tactile typing experience, while the Salt Ice switch offers a louder and smoother keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel while typing. However, both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience, allowing users to achieve similar results in terms of performance and comfort.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is important to think about your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth and tactile typing experience with a light touch, the Outemu Tom switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more energetic and responsive typing experience with bright and clacky characteristics, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch might be the better option. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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