Jerrzi Salt Ice vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl both stand out as enticing options for those who prefer a linear switch. The Salt Ice switches are renowned for their bright and clacky sound profile, offering a lively feedback that pairs well with their light actuation force, making them perfect for users who crave an energetic and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Pearl switches introduce a unique innovation with ball-bearings designed to reduce friction during keystrokes, resulting in an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing feel, complemented by a medium-high pitched sound signature. While the Salt Ice ignites a sense of excitement and feedback, the WS Pearl provides a serene, almost silky typing 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
30g
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
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl utilize distinct materials for their switch housings, which notably influence the sound profiles and tactile experiences they offer. The Salt Ice features a polycarbonate housing for both the top and bottom, known for its rigid construction. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile characterized by a crisper audio response. The clear properties of polycarbonate also lend themselves well to RGB lighting effects, enhancing visual appeal. In contrast, the WS Pearl employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which is a softer material that absorbs more sound. This leads to a fuller, deeper sound profile, creating a more muted auditory feedback compared to the Salt Ice.
When examining the structure of the switches, the differences in housing materials become even more pronounced. The Salt Ice's polycarbonate top imparts a significant impact on the sound produced during key release, allowing for a resonant sound that is ideal for users seeking pronounced auditory feedback. Its bottom housing similarly reinforces this quality, making for a cohesive sound experience throughout. Meanwhile, the nylon construction of the WS Pearl softens the auditory feed, particularly noticeable in both the key press and release phases. This results in a rounded auditory experience that may appeal to those who prefer less sharpness in their tactile feedback.
Despite their differing materials, both switch types can yield satisfying results, though through different auditory and tactile means. If one seeks a brighter, more resonant sound, the Salt Ice’s polycarbonate structure will undoubtedly fulfill that requirement. Conversely, the WS Pearl will cater to those who appreciate a smoother and subtler sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two hinges on personal preference regarding sound clarity versus depth, yet each can successfully deliver an engaging typing experience within their own strengths.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Salt Ice switch requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, while the WS Pearl has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams. This means that users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions might find the WS Pearl more comfortable. As for the bottom out forces, the Salt Ice does not have an available measurement, making direct comparison difficult, whereas the WS Pearl has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium. Therefore, users of the WS Pearl will experience a more substantial feel when bottoming out their keys. In summary, the Salt Ice is the heavier switch in terms of actuation force, while the WS Pearl offers a lighter option with a specified bottom out force, catering to different preferences in typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, we find that the Salt Ice has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the WS Pearl features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Salt Ice is the shorter option, making it potentially more appealing for those who prioritize quick response times, such as gamers. Conversely, the WS Pearl, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more tactile feel for users who enjoy a weightier typing experience. Despite the minor difference, both switches lean toward the shorter end of the spectrum compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, suggesting that users seeking faster actuation will achieve similar results with either switch, although the Pearl would still provide a bit more depth during use.
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 Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00 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
In terms of sound, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches produce an exceptionally bright and clacky tone, making them an energetic choice for users who enjoy an audible typing experience. The sound signature is particularly lively, allowing for a satisfying auditory feedback with every keystroke. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches offer a medium-high pitched sound signature that is distinct yet not as resonant as the Salt Ice. This creates a more subdued auditory experience, focusing on a smooth operation rather than an energetic clack. When considering sound, users can create a balance depending on their choice of keyboard and keycaps, ensuring that the overall acoustics fit their preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Salt Ice switches are distinguished by their light touch and vibrant feedback, which contributes to an energetic typing experience that requires minimal actuation force. This responsiveness makes the Salt Ice switches highly engaging, ideal for those who prefer quick, effortless keystrokes. In contrast, the WS Pearl switches provide a remarkably smooth feeling due to their design featuring ball-bearings that reduce friction during use. This results in a unique, almost luxurious typing experience that feels fluid and refined, making it an excellent option for users seeking a high-end tactile sensation.
In conclusion, while both the Jerrzi Salt Ice and Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches cater to different auditory and tactile preferences, both can deliver satisfying results to users based on their individual desires. The Salt Ice offers a lively and bright experience with a lighter touch, making it great for those who enjoy energetic feedback, while the WS Pearl excels with its smooth operation and subdued sound profile, appealing to users who prioritize a premium feel. Depending on the user's personal preference, both switches can provide enjoyable typing experiences with slight differences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches and Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switches ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and intended usage. If you're seeking a switch that offers an exceptionally bright and lively typing experience, the Salt Ice switches are an excellent choice. Their responsive actuation and clacky characteristics make them ideal for users who thrive on a vibrant, energetic feel while typing or gaming. These switches shine when you want a light touch and enjoy feedback that keeps you engaged. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience with less friction, the WS Pearl switches excel with their unique ball-bearing design. The medium bottom-out force of 58 grams provides a satisfying resistance that many find appealing for both typing and gaming. With a medium-high pitched sound signature and a notably smooth keystroke feel, these switches cater to users looking for a more refined, silky experience. Ultimately, consider what aspects you value most—whether it's the lively feedback of the Salt Ice or the buttery smoothness of the WS Pearl—and make a choice that suits your individual typing style.
Mentioned in this article
