Huano Sakura vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Huano Sakura and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Sakura and the Jerrzi Salt Ice both present compelling options for avid typists and gamers alike, each offering a unique experience. The Huano Sakura switches are praised for their feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making them ideal for long typing sessions where comfort and fatigue reduction are paramount. Meanwhile, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches stand out with their vibrant, clacky feedback and effortless actuation, providing an energetic, responsive typing experience that is perfect for those who thrive on a lively and interactive keyboard feel. While both switches are linear in nature, catering to users who prefer a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps, their distinct acoustic profiles and actuation characteristics cater to different typing preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Sakura and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches, it is evident that they utilize different types of plastics for their top housings, which subsequently influences their overall sound profiles and tactile sensations. The Sakura employs polyketone (POK) material, known for its smoothness and durability, offering an exceptionally strong build with high wear and shock resistance. This results in a smooth and clacky sound characteristic when pressed, making it preferable for those seeking a balanced and robust switch experience. Conversely, the Salt Ice uses polycarbonate as its top housing material, which is noted for creating a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffer composition. The translucence of polycarbonate also provides additional aesthetic appeal, particularly for users who utilize RGB lighting, giving the switch a distinct visual flair.
The bottom housing materials in both switches contrast as well, with the Sakura utilizing classic nylon, while the Salt Ice again resorts to polycarbonate. Nylon, being a softer plastic, tends to absorb sound more effectively, yielding a deeper and fuller sound profile that can feel warmer and more rounded during typing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice again contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile. This change between soft and stiff materials means that the overall auditory outcome when the keys bottom out will differ significantly between the two switches. While both switches may achieve certain degrees of durability and functionality, the sound and feel when typing will vary based on these housing materials.
While the differences in the top and bottom housing materials of the Sakura and Salt Ice lead to contrasting sound profiles and tactile experiences, it is interesting to note that each switch brings its own strengths to the table. The Sakura benefits from the robustness of POK in the upper housing and the sound-absorbing properties of nylon below to create a switch that is not only durable but also balanced in auditory character. In contrast, the Salt Ice’s synergy of polycarbonate in both housing components provides a sharpness that appeals to certain typists and gamers seeking a more pronounced auditory feedback. By understanding these materials and their differing qualities, users can choose a switch that aligns with their personal preferences and typing styles, leading to an optimized keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation force, which impacts typing experience. The Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams, allowing for effortless keystrokes that can enhance typing comfort during long sessions, making it a suitable choice for those who prioritize a lighter switch. In contrast, the Salt Ice switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile feedback that some users may prefer for a firmer push feel while typing or gaming. However, the bottom out force for the Salt Ice switch is unavailable, preventing a direct comparison in that aspect. Overall, the Huano Sakura is identified as the lighter option, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice is the heavier switch, catering to different preferences for force and feedback in typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Sakura has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Salt Ice measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This means that for gamers or those seeking faster response times, the Salt Ice’s shorter travel distance may provide a quicker engagement for keystrokes, catering to a preference for responsiveness. However, for users who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes, the Sakura, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for either speed and responsiveness or depth and feedback.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Huano Sakura linear switch features medium acoustics, providing a balanced auditory experience that is not overly loud or distracting. This makes it a suitable choice for those who prefer a quieter keyboard while still enjoying the faint yet satisfying sound that accompanies each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is characterized by its exceptionally bright and clacky sound profile, which tends to be more pronounced and energetic. This vibrant auditory feedback can add a dynamic element to typing, making every keystroke feel more pronounced and lively. However, it is important to remember that the overall sound of both switches can vary based on factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Sakura switch is lauded for its feather-light actuation, which is coupled with a smooth linear response ideal for extended typing sessions. This light touch allows for reduced finger fatigue, making it a practical choice for long hours of use without compromising feedback. Conversely, the Salt Ice switch also boasts a light touch but emphasizes vibrant feedback, creating an energetic typing experience. The responsive nature of the Salt Ice allows users to feel every keystroke distinctly, making it an engaging option for those who enjoy a more active interaction with their keyboard. Both switches offer a light touch, but the Sakura leans towards an effortless glide, while the Salt Ice focuses on lively feedback.
Bringing everything together, both the Huano Sakura and Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches cater to users seeking a lighter actuation force, making them excellent choices for typing comfort. The Sakura excels in providing a balanced sound and smooth feel, ideal for those prioritizing quietude during long sessions. In contrast, the Salt Ice is perfect for users who thrive on an energetic sound and a responsive feel, ensuring a more vibrant typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a quieter, more subdued setting or a lively, engaging typing atmosphere.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you value a light touch and moderate acoustics, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions without causing fatigue, the Sakura might be your best bet. It is particularly advantageous in quieter settings where you don’t want to disturb others, while still providing a satisfying feel. On the other hand, if you are drawn to an energetic and vibrant typing experience, the Salt Ice switches would be the way to go. Their clacky and bright sound profile combined with their responsive feedback makes them ideal for users looking for that lively interaction with their keyboard, perfect for gaming or writing sessions where you want to feel and hear every keystroke. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prefer a more subdued, pleasant typing experience or an engaging, dynamic one.
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