Jerrzi Salt Ice vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer distinct features to consider. The Salt Ice switches are praised for their bright and clacky characteristics, providing users with a light touch and vibrant feedback for a responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow switches from Aflion offer a pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, along with a neutral sound signature for a balanced typing experience. While the Salt Ice switch may appeal to those seeking an energetic typing feel, the Thunder Shadow switch caters to users looking for a more nuanced tactile 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Aflion Thunder Shadow feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing is beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. This allows for a clear and resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, the difference in bottom housing material between the Salt Ice and Thunder Shadow affects the overall typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings impact the sound profile when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. The stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the nylon bottom housing of the Thunder Shadow creates a different typing sensation. This showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall performance and sound of a switch.
In summary, the use of different housing materials in the Jerrzi Salt Ice and Aflion Thunder Shadow switches offers varying sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housing materials results in distinct sound qualities. The stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice provides a clearer and crisper sound, while the softer nylon bottom housing of the Thunder Shadow produces a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles can help users make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different typing experiences. The Salt Ice has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Thunder Shadow, whose actuation force is unknown. Additionally, the Salt Ice has no specified bottom out force, while the Thunder Shadow has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Salt Ice may be more suitable, allowing for longer typing sessions with less strain. On the other hand, the Thunder Shadow provides a stronger push feel, ideal for those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on 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 Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Thunder Shadow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Salt Ice. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. However, some users may find the difference in travel distance between the two switches to be minimal in terms of feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the specific travel distance that feels most comfortable and responsive.
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 Aflion Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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, creating a vibrant feedback that is sure to be pleasing to the ears of users who enjoy a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a more neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option suitable for various typing environments. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is influenced by multiple factors, such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is praised for its light touch and effortless actuation, providing users with a responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch offers a pronounced tactile bump and a medium weight feel with a 63.5g bottom-out force. This combination results in a tactile yet balanced typing sensation that can be described as invigorating, delivering a snappy and reactive feel to users seeking an immersive typing experience.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Salt Ice switch provides a vibrant and clacky sound with a light touch, while the Thunder Shadow switch offers a neutral sound profile with a pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users can find a switch that aligns with their individual needs and preferences. Whether you choose the Salt Ice or the Thunder Shadow, you can expect a top-notch typing experience tailored to your liking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it really comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a bright and clacky typing experience with a light touch, then the Salt Ice switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile bump with a medium weight feel and a neutral sound profile, then the Thunder Shadow switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, consider your typing preferences and needs when selecting between these two switches to ensure you have a satisfying typing experience.
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