KTT Purple Star vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice

Overview

When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Purple Star and the Jerrzi Salt Ice both offer unique advantages that cater to different typing preferences, despite both being linear switches. The Purple Star is celebrated for its all-POM construction, which results in a remarkably smooth typing experience paired with a neutral sound signature. With a very light 45g bottom-out force, it is particularly suited for those who favor light typing and seek comfort with every keystroke. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches are known for their bright and clacky characteristics that bring an element of vibrancy and energy to typing. Their responsive actuation and lightweight feel appeal to users who thrive on feedback and enjoy a more engaging experience. Ultimately, while both switches present their own benefits—smoothness and comfort from the Purple Star and energetic feedback from the Salt Ice—choosing between them hinges on individual user preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

KTT Purple Star Linear

Jerrzi Salt Ice Linear

$4.88 per 10

$2.79

$2.30 per 10

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Housing materials

The KTT Purple Star and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches are composed of different housing materials that distinctly influence their audio characteristics and tactile experiences. The Purple Star features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) housing for both its top and bottom structure. Known for its unique ability to generate a pleasing and relatively muted sound profile, POM creates a deeper auditory experience that many users find satisfying. In contrast, the Salt Ice employs polycarbonate for its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's rigidity, which enhances resonance, resulting in a sound that is more pronounced and piercing compared to the muted tones of POM.

In terms of aesthetics and practicality, the differences in housing materials also play a significant role. The Purple Star’s opaque POM housing may not lend itself to the same level of RGB lighting effects as the Salt Ice’s translucent polycarbonate housing, which truly shines when illuminated. Users who prioritize visual appeal alongside sound will favor the Salt Ice, as the light diffusion over its clear body allows for vibrant RGB lighting displays. Meanwhile, those who prefer a more understated aesthetic and a deeper sound will likely gravitate toward the Purple Star, benefitting from the POM’s characteristic muted auditory profile.

Although both switches exhibit distinct sound qualities due to their differing materials, the overall performance of each switch is rooted in the duality of their housing compositions. For the KTT Purple Star, the POM materials create a consistent sound experience that resonates with users looking for deeper bass tones, while for the Salt Ice, the polycarbonate housing results in a higher pitch and clarity. Ultimately, when pressed, the tactile sensation derived from each housing impacts user experience, as seen in how the softer, deeper feel of the Purple Star contrasts with the more pronounced and resonant feel of the Salt Ice. While they may produce different audible and tactile outcomes, skilled users can still achieve satisfactory results with both switches, albeit with different sensory experiences.

Weight

When comparing the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, we observe notable differences in their actuation forces and a significant unknown regarding the bottom out force of the Salt Ice. The Purple Star features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, compared to the slightly heavier 45 grams of the Salt Ice. This difference in actuation force may appeal to users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, making the Purple Star a suitable choice for those seeking comfort over prolonged use. However, the bottom out force for the Salt Ice switch remains unknown, while the Purple Star has a definitive bottom out force of 50 grams. This could imply a more consistent feedback when bottoming out with the Purple Star, whereas the Salt Ice might present a different tactile experience that is yet to be defined. Overall, for a lighter typing experience, the KTT Purple Star is the better option, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice may appeal to those who appreciate a slightly stronger actuation feel, despite the uncertainty about its bottom out characteristics.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, we find a slight difference in their specifications. The Purple Star has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Salt Ice features a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Salt Ice the shorter option by a mere tenth of a millimeter, appealing to those who prefer rapid response times, particularly in gaming scenarios. In contrast, the Purple Star offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more tactile experience for users who favor greater depth in their key presses. Ultimately, while both switches are relatively close in distance, their minor difference allows for choice based on personal preference regarding responsiveness versus depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the KTT Purple Star switches produce a low-pitched sound that lends a mellow and bass-heavy tone to typing. This neutral sound signature makes them a versatile option for users who prefer a quieter environment, as they won't overpower conversations or background noise. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches are known for their exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, creating an energetic auditory experience that many find engaging. While the sound of each switch can be influenced by the keyboard frame and keycap materials, the fundamental qualities of these switches suggest that the Purple Star will deliver a more subdued auditory experience, whereas the Salt Ice will offer a lively and punctuated sound.

When it comes to feel, the Purple Star switches are characterized by their mild, gentle typing experience. They require minimal force to actuate, making each keypress feel effortless and comfortable, which is especially beneficial during lengthy typing sessions as it helps reduce finger fatigue. Their design strikes a balance that makes them approachable for most users. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are distinguished by their energetic and responsive feel, though specific descriptors regarding their tactile qualities are unknown in this context. The light touch of the Salt Ice suggests that while they may also provide a comfortable typing experience, their vibrant feedback could make them feel more dynamic and less smooth compared to the Purple Star.

In conclusion, both the KTT Purple Star and Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches cater to different typing preferences. The Purple Star’s low-pitched sound and mild feel make it a fantastic choice for those who value a smooth and understated typing experience. Meanwhile, the bright and clacky nature of the Salt Ice may appeal to users looking for more auditory engagement and a lively typing touch. While both can provide enjoyable experiences, the choice ultimately hinges on whether a user prefers the subdued and smooth qualities of the Purple Star or the vibrant and energetic characteristics of the Salt Ice.

Conclusion

To wrap up, choosing between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the type of experience you're seeking. The Purple Star is an excellent choice if you prefer a smooth, low-pitched typing experience with a gentle, mild feel. Its light 50g bottom-out force makes it ideal for those who may find heavier switches tiring, ensuring that you can type for longer periods with minimal fatigue. This switch is perfect for light typists or anyone who appreciates a more subdued sound profile while still enjoying a comfortable and responsive keystroke. On the other hand, if you're someone who thrives on feedback and is after a lively, clacky typing experience, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch might be more up your alley. With its effortless actuation and vibrant characteristics, it adds a playful energy to your typing that can make the process feel more engaging and fun. In essence, if you lean towards a quiet and smooth experience, go for the Purple Star; if you want a more dynamic and responsive feel, the Salt Ice is the way to go.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Purple Star Linear

$4.88 per 10

Learn more

Jerrzi Salt Ice Linear

$2.79

$2.30 per 10

Learn more