Jerrzi Salt Ice vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Gateron Type S, both of which are linear switches. The Salt Ice switches are known for their bright and clacky characteristics, providing users with a light touch and vibrant feedback for an energetic typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S offers a more subdued and neutral typing experience with a weightier keystroke due to its 65g bottom-out. While the Salt Ice switch may appeal to those seeking a more responsive and lively typing experience, the Gateron Type S switch caters to users looking for a deeper acoustic experience with a bit more weight behind each keystroke. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Gateron Type S, it is clear that they both offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Salt Ice utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity. In contrast, the Type S incorporates a nylon top and bottom housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile compared to polycarbonate.
While both the Salt Ice and Type S share similarities in their housing materials, their differences in top and bottom housing materials lead to variations in sound and feel. The polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Salt Ice contribute to a consistent sharp and resonant sound profile throughout the keystroke. On the other hand, the nylon top and bottom housing of the Type S offer a deeper sound experience with a more noticeable impact on the sound when bottoming out and releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Gateron Type S comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The polycarbonate housing of the Salt Ice delivers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more precise typing feel. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Type S offers a deeper and fuller sound, catering to users who enjoy a more muted and rounder sound profile. Both switches showcase the impact housing materials can have on overall sound characteristics, allowing users to choose a switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it is clear that the Type S is the heavier option in terms of actuation force with 55 grams compared to the Salt Ice's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Salt Ice is unknown while the Type S has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch when typing, the Salt Ice may be the more suitable option as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, the Type S provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel due to its higher actuation and bottom out force. Both switches have their own advantages depending on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Type S linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Salt Ice has a shorter travel distance compared to the Type S. A shorter travel distance can be beneficial for gamers looking for faster response times, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feel for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding travel distance and response time.
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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 per 10 switches.
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 bright and clacky characteristics, offering a vibrant feedback that resonates with a light touch. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch presents a more neutral and subdued sound profile, catering to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. The Salt Ice switch provides a more energetic and lively typing sound, while the Type S offers a deeper and more mellow acoustic experience. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches would depend on the user's personal preference and the surrounding environment in which they intend to use the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is recognized for its exceptionally smooth actuation and effortless typing experience. Users who enjoy a light and responsive keystroke would find the Salt Ice switch to be a favorable choice. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch boasts a 65g bottom-out force, providing a weightier keystroke and a more tactile feedback. Those who prefer a more substantial feel to their typing would appreciate the Type S switch for its heavier actuation. The choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to the user's preference for typing feel and typing dynamics.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Salt Ice switch provides a bright and clacky typing experience with a light touch, while the Type S switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile with a weightier keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on the user's personal preference for typing sound and typing feel. However, it is important to note that the overall typing experience is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout, keycaps, and typing style. Whether choosing the Salt Ice or the Type S, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying and customized typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a vibrant, clacky, and light switch with exceptional feedback and easy actuation, the Salt Ice may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a weightier keystroke with a balanced and deeper sound profile, the Type S could be the ideal fit. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so take into consideration your typing needs and preferences when making your decision.
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