Jerrzi Salt Ice vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between linear and tactile switches can greatly impact your typing experience. The Jerrzi Salt Ice, a linear switch, is praised for its bright and clacky characteristics, providing users with a light touch and vibrant feedback that enhances typing speed and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Durock T1, a tactile switch, offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a soothing sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Salt Ice switch caters to those seeking an energetic and responsive typing experience, the T1 switch is favored for its comfort and unique tactile feedback. 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
The Jerrzi Salt Ice and Durock T1 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which provide a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same material for their top housings, the difference lies in their bottom housings.
In contrast to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing, the Durock T1 utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel when pressed down. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings in the Jerrzi Salt Ice and Durock T1, respectively, demonstrates how different materials can affect the acoustics and tactile feedback of mechanical switches.
Despite the difference in bottom housing materials between the Salt Ice and T1 switches, both products showcase the impact of housing materials on sound profiles. While polycarbonate enhances sharpness and clarity, nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound. The split qualities of each housing material on the top and bottom of the switch result in a unique typing experience, with the bottom-out sound and feel influenced by the bottom housing, and the sound upon key release impacted by the top housing. Ultimately, the choice of housing material in mechanical switches can greatly influence the overall sound and tactile feedback, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock T1 tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Salt Ice is unavailable. This means that the Salt Ice switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience and want to avoid fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the T1 switch would be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, so users can choose the one that best suits their preferences.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, making it shorter than the Durock T1 tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4mm. This means that the Salt Ice provides a quicker key press response compared to the T1. Gamers who prioritize speed may prefer the Salt Ice for this reason. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more deliberate key press with a bit more depth may lean towards the T1. Despite the difference in travel distance, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience and actuation feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preference for key press speed and depth.
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 T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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, providing users with a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Salt Ice switch leans towards a more vibrant and energetic sound, the T1 switch offers a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Both switches provide unique auditory feedback that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the choice ultimately depending on personal preference and the setup in which they are used.
When it comes to feel, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is recognized for its light touch and effortless actuation, catering to users who prefer a smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a stepped feel with a medium bump when pressed down, providing a comfortable and consistent typing sensation. Additionally, the T1 switch is described as accented and polished, ensuring a refined and smooth key travel. While the Salt Ice switch focuses on providing a light and responsive feel, the T1 switch delivers a more tactile and nuanced typing experience, suited for those who appreciate a bit more feedback while typing.
Overall, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Salt Ice switch stands out for its bright and clacky sound profile, coupled with a light touch for effortless typing. On the other hand, the T1 switch provides a low-pitched sound with a medium bump feel, offering users a comfortable and tactile typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a mechanical switch that suits their individual typing style and preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Salt Ice or T1 switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience that meets your specific needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in typing experience. If you enjoy a bright and clacky switch with a light touch and vibrant feedback, the Salt Ice may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, the T1 would be more suited to your preferences. Consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch as well as the bottom out force to determine which one aligns better with your typing style. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, so choose the one that best fits your personal preference and typing needs.
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