KTT Rose vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Rose linear switch to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Rose switches are praised for their beautiful design and progressive springs, providing users with a substantial yet not heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches are known for their bright and clacky characteristics, along with a light touch that offers vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. While the Rose switches offer a more low-pitched and neutral typing experience, the Salt Ice switches are energetic and responsive. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
Progressive spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Rose and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches are quite similar, as they both feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it resonate clearly. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, the Rose's nylon bottom housing differs from the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings.
While both the Rose and the Salt Ice switches have polycarbonate top housings and offer similar sound profiles, the differences in their bottom housings lead to variations in sound and feel. The Rose's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing, which enhances clear and resonant sound. The bottom housing of a switch influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate bottom housings can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound of the switches.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the KTT Rose and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches offer distinct advantages in terms of sound profile and typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound, the Rose's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper sound profile compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on sound quality and feel can help users choose the switch that best suits their preferences for typing and gaming activities. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a switch plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Rose linear switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In comparison, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams but the bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Rose switch requires more force to bottom out compared to the Salt Ice switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Salt Ice switch, while those who prefer a stronger push feel may opt for the Rose switch. Both switches offer their own advantages - the lighter actuation force of the Salt Ice switch may be preferred for longer typing sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Rose switch may provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Rose 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 this case, the Jerrzi Salt Ice has a shorter travel distance compared to the KTT Rose. The shorter travel distance of the Jerrzi Salt Ice may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, as shorter distances are preferred in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the KTT Rose may provide a more substantial and satisfying feel for those who enjoy a deeper typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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 KTT Rose linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, resulting in a bass-heavy and mellow tone while providing a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is known for its bright, clacky sound, giving off a vibrant feedback with an energetic and responsive typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Rose switch may be preferred for its mellower sound, while the Salt Ice switch appeals to those seeking a more lively typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Rose linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The mild feel offers a gentle typing experience while the polished finish ensures smooth and refined key travel, reducing friction for a sleek typing experience. In contrast, information on the feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is unavailable. In this aspect, the Rose switch may be favored by users looking for a comfortable and smooth typing feel.
Considering the available information, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a low-pitched, neutral sound and a mild, polished typing experience, making it suitable for users looking for a balanced and refined typing feel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch provides a bright, clacky sound with a light touch, offering a vibrant and energetic typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch. In cases where similar qualities are described or information is missing, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Rose linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and a typing experience that feels substantial yet not heavy, the KTT Rose linear switch with its progressive springs may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and clacky switch with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the unique typing experience of the Rose or the energetic and responsive feel of the Salt Ice.
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