Jerrzi Salt Ice vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) single spring tactile switch, it is important to consider their unique characteristics. The Salt Ice switches are known for their exceptionally bright and clacky feel, providing users with a light touch and vibrant feedback for a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) single spring switch offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it a comfortable option for those seeking a tactile typing experience. While the Salt Ice switch is categorized as linear, the Shadow (Ink) single spring switch falls under the bouncy category. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's delve a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Although both the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, they offer slightly different experiences due to how the housing materials interact with the overall sound profile of the switches. The use of polycarbonate in the housings of both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which contributes to a more clear and resonant sound output. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard.
While both switches share the same housing material, the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring may differ in the overall feel and sound produced when typing. This is because the qualities of the housing material are split between the top and bottom housings of the switches. When pressing down on a key, the bottom housing's characteristics will be more pronounced, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key, adding an additional layer of complexity to the typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience one is looking to achieve. Both switches offer a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile thanks to the polycarbonate housing materials used. However, subtle differences in the distribution of these qualities between the top and bottom housings may lead to variations in the overall typing experience. Whether one prioritizes the feel of bottoming out keys or the sound of releasing them, both switches provide a unique and satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts looking to customize their keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, we see that the Salt Ice has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow (Ink) which has a slightly heavier force of 48 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Salt Ice is unknown, while the Shadow (Ink) has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier in that aspect. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Salt Ice would be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Salt Ice has a shorter travel distance compared to the Shadow Single Spring. The shorter travel distance of the Salt Ice may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Shadow Single Spring may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is best known for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, making it an ideal choice for users who enjoy a lively and energetic typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a more satisfying auditory feedback for those who prefer a tactile switch.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Salt Ice is praised for its light touch and effortless actuation, offering users a responsive typing experience. Meanwhile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed.
Overall, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offer different sound profiles and tactile feedback, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether the user prioritizes a bright and clacky typing experience or a deeper and bouncier tactile feedback. It is important to consider personal preferences, along with other factors such as keyboard build and keycap choice, to determine which switch would be the best fit for your typing style.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it all comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a bright and clacky switch with a light touch, the Salt Ice is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with medium tactility and a deep sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is the better choice. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
