Jerrzi Salt Ice vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer unique characteristics to suit different preferences. The Salt Ice switches are praised for their bright and clacky nature, providing a light touch and vibrant feedback for an energetic typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches cater to those in need of a tactile and quieter typing experience, featuring a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. While the Salt Ice switch offers a responsive and lively typing experience, the Silent T1 switch provides a more subdued and tactile feel suitable for noise-sensitive environments. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches ensures a clear and resonant sound experience, making them both ideal choices for users looking for a distinct auditory feedback.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Salt Ice features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which echoes the qualities of the top housing with a sharp and clear sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials provides users with the option to experience different sound profiles based on their preferences.
Overall, while the top housing material remains the same for both the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Durock Silent T1, their differing bottom housing materials offer unique sound experiences. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch is more pronounced, while the top housing primarily affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of a clear and resonant sound profile due to the use of polycarbonate in both switches' top housings.
Weight
The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Silent T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Salt Ice is unknown. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches can greatly impact the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may opt for the Salt Ice for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may choose the Silent T1. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, the Salt Ice has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Silent T1's 4 mm. The Salt Ice provides a quicker and more responsive typing experience, which is particularly favored by gamers looking for fast response times. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a slightly deeper key press, which some users may find more satisfying for typing. Both switches fall within the range of typical travel distances, with the Silent T1 being more traditional at 4 mm and the Salt Ice on the shorter end at 3.4 mm. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and speed.
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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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 known for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, providing users with a vibrant feedback that complements its light touch. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, making it ideal for those in noise-sensitive environments who prefer a quieter typing experience. While the Salt Ice delivers a more energetic and audible typing sound, the Silent T1 focuses on reducing noise levels without sacrificing tactile feedback.
In terms of feel, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is praised for its light touch and effortless actuation, offering users a smooth and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a medium bump with a padded bottom-out feel, delivering a more subtle and controlled typing feedback. Additionally, the Silent T1 switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished, highlighting its refined tactility and smooth key travel compared to the Salt Ice switch.
Overall, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Salt Ice switch offers a bright and clacky typing experience with a light touch, the Silent T1 switch provides a quieter and more controlled tactile feedback for users in noise-sensitive environments. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a bright and clacky typing experience with light touch and vibrant feedback, the Salt Ice may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and quieter typing experience ideal for noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a great option. Ultimately, the Salt Ice is for those seeking an energetic and responsive typing experience, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is for those who desire a tactile and silenced switch. Evaluate your needs and preferences to determine which switch suits you best.
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