Jerrzi Salt Ice vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Jerrzi Salt Ice and Gazzew U4Tx RGB offer intriguing yet distinct options for different typing preferences. The Salt Ice switch is celebrated for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, providing users with a vibrant feedback and effortless actuation that makes typing an energetic and responsive experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB stands out with its unique blend of a deep "thock" sound when bottoming out and the quiet top-out of the U4, delivering a more refined acoustic profile alongside a satisfying tactile bump. While the Salt Ice may be ideal for those who crave a lively and engaging typing environment, the U4Tx RGB caters to users who prioritize a luxurious and subdued auditory experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches, two distinct approaches to sound profiling and aesthetics emerge. The Salt Ice features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its relative stiffness. This material's translucency not only enhances the RGB lighting effects but also elevates the clarity of the sound when releasing a key. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB utilizes a proprietary plastic blend known as "boba plastic," which is softer and designed to deliver a richer, deeper sound profile. While both switches target an enhanced audio experience, the characteristics of their materials shape how users perceive their acoustic output—one emphasizing clarity and brightness, while the other leans towards warmth and depth.
The bottom housings of these switches showcase a similar divergence in their construction. The Salt Ice again relies on polycarbonate, which reinforces its higher-pitched sound profile and clear resonance. This choice subscribes to the trend of using stiffer materials to generate a more pronounced audio experience when bottoming out a key. Meanwhile, the U4Tx RGB's bottom housing also employs the proprietary Gazzew blend. This softer material aims to provide a smoother and more muted tactile feedback, resulting in a notably different bottom-out sound and feel compared to its polycarbonate counterpart. Such distinctions in the material of the bottom housing are essential for users seeking specific auditory and tactile experiences from their mechanical keyboards.
Ultimately, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches offer different materials that influence their sound profiles, one can achieve a cohesive auditory experience by understanding how these materials work in combination. If the user wishes to replicate a sound profile that balances the strengths of both switches, they might consider using them in various configurations. Utilizing a polycarbonate top housing with a softer bottom can create a harmonious blend of crispness on release and warmth on bottom-out, allowing enthusiasts to fine-tune their keyboard's acoustic signature. Thus, despite their differences, both switches can be part of a holistic approach to achieving a desired sound experience through careful selection and experimentation.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch with the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different typing preferences. The Salt Ice switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a balance that many users find comfortable, especially for extended typing sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Salt Ice is unavailable, which leaves a gap in understanding how it feels when fully pressed. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB switch has an unknown actuation force, but its bottom out force is a firm 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy resistance that could be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. In terms of weight, the Salt Ice is the lighter option, appealing to users who favor ease of use for prolonged typing or gaming, while the U4Tx RGB, with its heavier bottom out force, may attract users looking for a stronger push feel. Overall, those who enjoy a lighter switch with a defined actuation point might lean towards the Salt Ice, whereas the U4Tx RGB will be better suited for users seeking a firmer tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Salt Ice switch offers a shorter and potentially more responsive feel, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker actuation times. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB, with its longer travel distance, could provide a more tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper, more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference: if you value faster response and a more abrupt feel, the Salt Ice is the better option; however, if you prefer a more pronounced depth in your keystrokes, then the U4Tx RGB would be the way to go.
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 Gazzew U4Tx RGB comes in at $6.50 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
The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is characterized by its exceptionally bright and clacky sound, which creates an energetic and lively auditory environment during use. This contributes to a vibrant typing experience that many users find engaging. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch produces a refined sound profile, noted for its deep "thock" when bottoming out and the quiet stealthiness of topping out. This contrast results in a more muted yet sophisticated auditory feedback that caters to those who prefer a less intrusive typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Salt Ice switch is celebrated for its light touch and effortless actuation, allowing for a seamless and responsive typing experience. This makes it particularly appealing for users who thrive on speed and agility while typing. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB switch features a sharp tactile bump that provides a luxurious and satisfying feedback during each keystroke. This tactile response can enhance typing accuracy and comfort, making it favorable for those who appreciate tactile nuances in their keystrokes.
In summary, while the Salt Ice linear switch offers an energetic and clacky sound profile with a lightweight actuation, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch delivers a refined auditory experience accompanied by a pronounced tactile bump. Both switches cater to different preferences—those seeking a vibrant and responsive typing experience may gravitate towards the Salt Ice, while users looking for a quieter, more luxurious feel may prefer the U4Tx RGB. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize auditory feedback, actuation, or tactile sensation in your typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, you should consider your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a lively and energetic typing experience with a clacky sound and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice is the ideal choice. Its light touch and vibrant feedback make it perfect for fast typists or gamers looking for a switch that provides a fun and engaging experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more refined sound profile accompanied by a deep thock and a noticeable tactile bump, the U4Tx RGB is the way to go. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force offers a satisfying resistance that can enhance your overall typing experience, making it suitable for those who appreciate a quieter yet luxurious feel. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you value the energetic responsiveness of the Salt Ice or the smooth, rich feedback of the U4Tx RGB.
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