Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura 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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Jerrzi Salt Ice offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Purple Sakura stands out for its tactile nature, providing a satisfying response with a balanced tactility that is not too intense. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch offers a linear typing experience with bright and clacky characteristics, perfect for those who enjoy a more energetic and responsive feel. While the Purple Sakura is described as 'buttery', 'mild', 'neutral', and 'snappy', the Salt Ice switch is known for its vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, it is notable that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches planning to use RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Purple Sakura utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Salt Ice uses a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a clear and resonant sound profile.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their top and bottom housing combinations. The Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in sound characteristics between the two switches highlights the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in shaping the overall typing experience. While the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Jerrzi Salt Ice contributes to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The use of polycarbonate in both switches' top housing creates a consistent sharp and clear sound profile, while the variation in bottom housing materials influences the depth and resonance of the sound. Whether preferring a deeper, fuller sound from the nylon bottom housing of the Purple Sakura or a crisper, resonant sound from the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice, both switches offer unique typing experiences tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, we can see that the Purple Sakura requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Salt Ice's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Purple Sakura is 60 grams, while the Salt Ice does not have a specified bottom out force. This means that the Purple Sakura provides a more consistent and substantial typing experience, as it requires a bit more force both to actuate and to bottom out. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Salt Ice may be a better option due to its lighter actuation force. Overall, the Purple Sakura is better suited for users who prefer a slightly heavier typing feel, while the Salt Ice may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. Both switches offer unique experiences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Purple Sakura has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Salt Ice has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular for their faster response times, particularly among gamers. However, the Salt Ice switch has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired feel while typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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.
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
When it comes to sound, the Purple Sakura offers a neutral profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches provide a bright and clacky sound that can add an energetic element to your typing experience. Additionally, the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Purple Sakura switches are praised for their buttery and mild keystrokes, offering a smooth and gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle ground. The snappy response of the Purple Sakura also adds to the overall liveliness of the typing sensation. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Salt Ice switches is currently unknown.
Overall, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch provides a balanced and responsive typing experience with a mild, yet snappy feel and a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches offer a bright and clacky sound that can enhance the typing experience with their vibrant feedback. Depending on your preferences, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, albeit in different ways. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a more balanced and subtle typing experience or a louder and more energetic one.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, you should choose the Purple Sakura if you prefer a medium bottom out force with a buttery, snappy feel and a mild, neutral sound profile. These switches strike a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering, making them suitable for a variety of typing needs. On the other hand, opt for the Salt Ice if you are drawn to a bright, clacky switch with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. The Salt Ice offers a light touch and energetic typing experience that is sure to keep you engaged. Ultimately, consider your preferences for bottom out force, feel, and sound when making your decision between these two unique mechanical keyboard switches.
Mentioned in this article
