Jerrzi Salt Ice vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Salt Ice and TTC Silent Red both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Salt Ice is praised for its bright and clacky nature, providing a lively typing experience with a light touch. On the other hand, the Silent Red is known for its smooth and silent operation, making it ideal for office or shared living spaces. While the Salt Ice exudes energy and responsiveness, the Silent Red offers a more subdued and comfortable typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Jerrzi Salt Ice and TTC Silent Red both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a clear and resonant sound that is especially advantageous if RGB lighting is a consideration. However, the Silent Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials leads to a difference in the overall sound profile between the two switches.
In terms of the aesthetics and functionality, both the Salt Ice and Silent Red benefit from the translucent nature of polycarbonate in their top housings, allowing for enhanced RGB lighting effects. This similarity in housing material enables a visually appealing feature in both switches while also contributing to the sharp and crisp sound profile. On the other hand, the difference in bottom housing material between polycarbonate for the Salt Ice and nylon for the Silent Red influences the tactile feel and overall sound experience of typing on each switch. The Jerrzi Salt Ice may offer a more distinct and resonant typing experience compared to the TTC Silent Red due to the use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings.
In summary, while both the Jerrzi Salt Ice and TTC Silent Red share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings in terms of sound quality and aesthetics, the distinction in bottom housing materials sets them apart. The use of nylon in the Silent Red's bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the sharper and higher-pitched sound produced by the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. These differences in housing materials contribute to unique typing experiences for users of each switch, allowing for a range of preferences based on sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
In comparing the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of sensitivity. However, the bottom out force differs between the two switches. The Salt Ice switch does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Silent Red switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. This means that the Silent Red switch requires more force to fully press down compared to the Salt Ice switch. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Salt Ice switch may be more suitable, allowing for longer typing sessions with less strain. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Silent Red switch, providing a heavier push for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the TTC Silent Red linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal choices for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. The difference of 0.3mm between the two may be noticeable to some users, with the Salt Ice feeling slightly more abrupt and the Silent Red offering a bit more depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 TTC Silent Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 known for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, creating a vibrant feedback that is sure to stand out. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is designed to be muted, offering a softer and quieter typing experience that is ideal for environments where noise is a concern. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer a louder and more energetic typing experience with the Salt Ice or a more discreet and subdued experience with the Silent Red.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Salt Ice switch is lauded for its light touch and effortless actuation, providing users with a responsive and energetic typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Red switch offers a smooth and consistent feel from top to bottom, with a padded bottom-out sensation for added comfort during extended typing sessions. The Silent Red switch is described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, along with a mild and polished feel for a comfortable and refined typing sensation.
Overall, both the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a switch that is bright, clacky, and energetic, the Salt Ice would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you value a quiet, smooth, and comfortable typing experience, the Silent Red would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience and environment. If you enjoy a bright and clacky typing experience with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice switches would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience with a muted sound profile and padded bottom-out feel, the Silent Red switches are the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize energetic responsiveness or quiet comfort in your typing sessions.
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