Jerrzi Salt Ice vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the KTT Semi Mute mechanical keyboard switches, both options offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Salt Ice switches are renowned for their bright and clacky characteristics, providing a lively and responsive typing experience with a light touch. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute switches, despite their silent operation, offer a smooth linear actuation and advanced dampening technology for a comfortable and quiet typing experience, perfect for those who value a noise-free environment. Overall, if you prefer a vibrant and energetic typing experience, the Salt Ice switches might be the way to go. However, if you prioritize a quiet and gratifying typing feel, the KTT Semi Mute switches could be the better choice. Let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the KTT Semi Mute, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. The use of polycarbonate in both cases creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it a popular choice for switches that aim to provide a satisfying auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches.
While both the Salt Ice and Semi Mute feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, the key difference lies in how these qualities are distributed throughout the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, are more prominent when the switch is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when the key is released. This distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings gives each switch a unique feel and sound profile that can cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Ultimately, the similarities in housing materials between the Salt Ice and Semi Mute result in a comparable experience when it comes to sound profile and aesthetics. Both switches leverage the properties of polycarbonate to deliver a crisp and resonant sound profile, while also allowing for customization through RGB lighting. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a more subtle switch feel, the polycarbonate housings of these switches ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is clear that the Salt Ice is lighter in both aspects. With an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Semi Mute's 43 grams, it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force of the Semi Mute at 58 grams is heavier than the Salt Ice's unknown bottom out force. The difference in bottom out force may result in a more substantial typing experience with the Semi Mute, while the lighter actuation force of the Salt Ice might be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Semi Mute linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Salt Ice offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Semi Mute. A travel distance of 3.4 mm is on the shorter side, making it suitable for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Semi Mute with a travel distance of 4 mm provides a bit more depth to the keypress, which some users might prefer for a more tactile feel. Both switches fall within the range of modern preferences for travel distances, with the Salt Ice being slightly shorter and the Semi Mute being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for keypress responsiveness and 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 Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is characterized by a bright and clacky sound, providing users with a lively and energetic typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch offers a muted and quiet sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a noise-free environment during late-night typing sessions. While the Salt Ice switch may be more audible, the Semi Mute switch provides a softer and subtler typing experience, ensuring undisturbed use in any setting.
When it comes to feel, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is known for its light touch and responsive actuation, offering users a smooth and effortless typing sensation. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as buttery and mild, providing a comfortable and gratifying typing feel with advanced dampening technology for a more subdued keystroke experience. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the Salt Ice switch focusing on quick and responsive typing, while the Semi Mute switch prioritizes a smooth and uniform typing sensation.
Overall, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Salt Ice switch is ideal for those looking for a vibrant and lively typing experience with its bright and clacky characteristics, whereas the Semi Mute switch is perfect for users who prefer a quieter and more subdued typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences and typing environment, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to a variety of users. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound and responsiveness or a quieter and smoother typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a bright and clacky feel with a light touch and vibrant feedback, the Salt Ice switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and a comfortable, dampened typing feel with a moderate actuation force, the Semi Mute switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer an energetic and responsive typing experience (Salt Ice) or a quiet and gratifying typing feel (Semi Mute).
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