Jerrzi Salt Ice vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer two distinct typing experiences. The Salt Ice switches are celebrated for their bright and clacky feel, paired with a light touch that provides a lively and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck switches offer a more subtle tactile feel, with a gentle tactility and clean sound profile. While the Salt Ice switch leans towards a more energetic and vibrant typing experience, the Duck switch provides a smooth and polished feel. 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
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the SP-Star Duck feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, which results in a similar sound profile for both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when typing on either keyboard. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, allowing for a visually appealing experience while typing. Overall, users can expect a clear and resonant sound profile from both the Salt Ice and the Duck due to their polycarbonate housing materials.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate housing material, the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the SP-Star Duck may differ in other aspects of their design. The housing of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of typing on a keyboard. With the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key and the bottom housing influencing the sound when pressing a key, the distribution of these qualities may vary between the Salt Ice and the Duck. Users may notice subtle differences in the typing experience based on how the top and bottom housings interact with each other in these two keyboards.
Despite any potential differences in design, the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the SP-Star Duck both offer a unique typing experience thanks to their polycarbonate housing. With a focus on creating a clear and resonant sound profile, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic in the top and bottom housings of these switches ensures a consistent typing experience. Whether using RGB lighting or not, the polycarbonate material in the housing of these keyboards provides users with a visually appealing and audibly satisfying keyboard experience. Overall, the housing materials of the Salt Ice and the Duck contribute to a premium typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that they offer a different typing experience. The Salt Ice has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Duck has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the Duck is heavier at 58 grams compared to the Salt Ice, which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Duck switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, whereas the Salt Ice switch offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Salt Ice offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast-paced action. On the other hand, the Duck provides a deeper key press with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Both switches have their benefits depending on personal preference, with the Salt Ice offering speed and efficiency, while the Duck offers a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed or depth in your 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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
The Jerrzi salt ice linear switch is known for its bright and clacky sound profile, creating an energetic and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star duck tactile switch offers a clean and crispy sound, providing a more subtle tactile typing experience. The salt ice switch leans towards a more vibrant and attention-grabbing sound, while the duck switch offers a gentler and more understated auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the salt ice switch is described as []. The duck switch, however, is known for its mild and approachable typing experience. Additionally, the duck switch is labeled as buttery and polished, indicating a smooth and refined keystroke with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the specific feel of the salt ice switch is not provided, it can be inferred that the duck switch would offer a more comfortable and smooth typing sensation compared to the potentially more intense experience of the salt ice switch.
Overall, the Jerrzi salt ice linear switch and the SP-Star duck tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the salt ice switch provides a lively and vibrant typing experience, the duck switch delivers a more subdued and refined feel. Depending on whether you prefer a more energetic sound profile or a gentler typing sensation, either switch can provide a satisfying experience. Additionally, both switches offer qualities that make them suitable for various typing needs, whether for work or leisure.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a bright and clacky typing experience with light touch and vibrant feedback, the Salt Ice switches would be a great choice for an energetic and responsive typing feel. However, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the Duck switches would be perfect for a gentle tactility. Ultimately, the Salt Ice switches are ideal for those seeking a more lively and responsive typing experience, while the Duck switches are suited for a smoother and gentler typing feel. Consider these factors when deciding which switch aligns best with your preferences and needs.
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