Jerrzi Salt Ice vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, preferences can often boil down to the tactile experience each one provides, and the Jerrzi Salt Ice and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches present two distinct yet compelling options. The Salt Ice switch is celebrated for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, delivering an energetic and responsive typing experience with its light touch—perfect for users who relish in a lively ambiance while they type. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a more refined approach, featuring a unique PA12 top housing that promotes softer acoustics and a POM stem that provides a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, effectively combining subtle sophistication with precise performance. While the Salt Ice is ideal for those seeking vibrant feedback and a sense of dynamism, the Xinhai (Heavy) serves those who appreciate a quieter yet equally engaging interaction with their keyboard. 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
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), a clear distinction emerges between the two types of plastics used in their construction. The Salt Ice utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a sound profile that is characterized by sharpness, clarity, and resonance. This higher stiffness allows polycarbonate to produce a brighter and crisper auditory experience, especially beneficial when incorporating RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) opts for nylon in both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a contrasting sound that is notably deeper and fuller. The inherent softness of nylon enables it to absorb more sound, leading to a rounder and more muted auditory response which might be preferred by those seeking a more subtle sound experience while typing.
Despite the differences in materials, both switches’ performances might coexist harmoniously in a single typing experience, as the housing material affects sound and feel in different ways. In the case of the Salt Ice, the dual polycarbonate construction accentuates the sharpness of sound, particularly when releasing a key. Users can expect a clear auditory cue when they bottom out and lift off. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy) with its nylon housing provides a more tactile sensation that absorbs sound and results in a softer bottom-out feedback without the sharpness, enhancing the overall softness of the keystroke. The unique effects of each material can thus be experienced distinctly, but it's essential to note that a switch's total performance is a result of its combination of materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) depends largely on personal preference regarding sound and feel. If a user prefers a brighter, more resonant sound, the Salt Ice's polycarbonate construction might be the better option. Conversely, those who favor a softer, more muted typing experience may find the Xinhai (Heavy) with nylon housing preferable. In essence, while each switch offers distinct auditory and tactile qualities stemming from their materials, they both demonstrate how different housing choices can provide diverse experiences based on the characteristics of their respective plastics. Since each switch shares similarities in function, they can be compared in diverse environments to achieve varied, individualized results.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out characteristics. The Salt Ice has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience and longer usage without fatigue. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a higher actuation force of 55 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial push feel when typing. Regarding bottom out force, while the Xinhai switch has a defined bottom out force of 62.5 grams, the Salt Ice does not have this measurement available, leaving that aspect unknown. Overall, if users prefer lighter switches for extended usage, the Salt Ice is the better choice, while those seeking a firmer feel during each keystroke would benefit more from the Xinhai (Heavy) switch.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them identical in this regard. Since their travel distances are the same, users can expect similar tactile feedback and key actuation experiences when using either switch. This characteristic may contribute to a consistent typing experience for those who favor these switches, as the travel distance remains uniform from the top to the bottom of each key press.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $2.99.
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 offers a bright and clacky auditory profile that sets it apart from many other switches. This vibrant feedback creates an exhilarating typing experience that can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy a more expressive sound with each keystroke. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch has a softer acoustic presence, resulting from its unique PA12 top housing. This switch embodies a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance thanks to its POM stem, which produces a more refined sound that prioritizes subtlety over volume. Ultimately, while the Salt Ice caters to those who appreciate energetic and lively sounds, the Xinhai (Heavy) appeals to users seeking a quieter yet still engaging auditory experience.
Regarding feel, the Salt Ice shines with its exceptionally light touch, making it easy to actuate and ideal for those who desire a responsive typing experience with minimal resistance. This lightness translates to a sense of fluidity and energy, perfect for rapid typing sessions. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy) provides a more substantial tactile experience, reflecting its heavier variant status. This added weight offers a different dynamic, giving typists a sense of control and stability during keystrokes, appealing to individuals who prefer a more deliberate, grounded sensation while typing. Thus, while the Salt Ice excels in lightness and responsiveness, the Xinhai (Heavy) underscores a robust tactile feel.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch present distinct auditory and tactile experiences tailored to different preferences. The Salt Ice offers a vibrant, clack-heavy sound and a light, effortless touch, making it perfect for energetic typists. Meanwhile, the Xinhai (Heavy) boasts a softer, crisp resonance paired with a robust feel that caters to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences, particularly regarding sound and feel, leading to uniquely satisfying typing experiences with either option.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, consider the kind of typing experience you desire. If you prefer a switch that delivers an energetic and responsive feel, the Salt Ice is the way to go, thanks to its exceptionally bright and clacky nature, paired with a light touch that makes typing feel effortless. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy rhythmic typing and want a lively auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you favor a more robust and refined approach to your keystrokes, the Xinhai (Heavy) would be your best option. With a medium bottom-out force of 62.5 grams, it provides a more substantial resistance that lends itself to a controlled typing environment, yielding a sophisticated acoustic profile while ensuring precise performance. This switch’s POM stem and PA12 housing offer a unique combination of crispness and subtlety, making it ideal for those who prefer a heavier action and a more muted sound. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you want a lively, energetic switch or a refined, tactile experience.
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