Jerrzi Salt Ice vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features for different typing preferences. The Salt Ice switch is renowned for its bright and clacky characteristics, providing users with a vibrant feedback and light actuation for a responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Snow switch distinguishes itself with an innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear feel. While the Salt Ice is ideal for those seeking an energetic typing experience, the Snow switch appeals to users looking for a low-pitched and bouncy sensation. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Dareu Snow, it is evident that they both prioritize sound quality and durability. The Salt Ice's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, while also providing strength and clarity. On the other hand, the Snow's POK top housing offers smoothness and durability, with exceptional wear and shock resistance. Despite their different materials, both switches aim to deliver a premium typing experience with a focus on sound and longevity.
While the Salt Ice utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a consistent sound profile and aesthetic appeal, the Snow opts for a combination of POK and nylon. The Snow's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, in contrast to the sharpness of the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference in materials showcases how the housing can significantly impact the sound and feel of a switch, with nylon providing a more muted and rounded sound compared to polycarbonate's clarity and resonance.
Overall, whether it be the polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Salt Ice or the POK top housing and nylon bottom housing of the Snow, both switches strive to offer a high-quality typing experience. The choice of housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile, durability, and overall performance of the switch. By understanding the unique qualities of each material, keyboard enthusiasts can make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound, feel, and longevity.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is clear that the Snow switch is slightly heavier than the Salt Ice switch. The Salt Ice has an actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Snow switch has an actuation force of 50 grams. The bottom out force of the Salt Ice is unknown, while the Snow switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Salt Ice for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier push feel of the Snow switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dareu Snow switch. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a shorter travel distance that is preferred by many users looking for quick and responsive key presses.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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, offering users a vibrant feedback and an energetic typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch boasts a deeper sound signature thanks to its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, creating a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound profile that provides a satisfying typing experience. The choice of board and keycaps will also play a role in the overall sound produced by each switch.
Moving on to feel, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is appreciated for its light touch and effortless actuation, giving users a responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like sensation when typing and giving a lively feel with rebound when keys are pressed. This tactile feedback adds to the overall typing experience and comfort of the switch.
Overall, both the Jerrzi Salt Ice and Dareu Snow linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Salt Ice switch provides a bright and clacky typing experience with a light touch, the Snow switch offers a deeper sound signature and bouncy feedback. Depending on whether you prefer an energetic and responsive typing experience or a smoother and more tactile feel, either switch could be a great choice for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches are guaranteed to provide a high-quality typing experience, showcasing the innovation and versatility present in the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and a bright, clacky typing experience with vibrant feedback, then the Salt Ice would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force, a deeper sound signature, and a bouncy feel with elastic feedback, then the Snow switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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