Jerrzi Salt Ice vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the PH Studio Yoel both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Salt Ice is renowned for its exceptionally bright and clacky feedback and light touch, providing users with an energetic and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel linear switch delivers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky profile, offering a satisfying resonance upon bottoming out. Both switches have their own appeal and strengths, making them suitable choices for those seeking a specific typing feel. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the PH Studio Yoel are quite similar in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting for a visually appealing experience. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic features from both the Salt Ice and the Yoel switches when it comes to their top housings.
However, where the two switches differ is in the material used for the bottom housing. The Salt Ice features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the sharp, higher-pitched sound profile of the switch. On the other hand, the Yoel utilizes a POM bottom housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contrast in bottom housing materials results in a different sound experience when pressing down on the key, with the bottom housing playing a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Overall, the use of different housing materials for the top and bottom housings of the Salt Ice and the Yoel switches brings a unique blend of sound profiles to each switch. While both switches benefit from the crisp and resonant sound of polycarbonate in their top housings, the difference in bottom housing materials results in distinct sound experiences when typing on each switch. Users can enjoy a sharp and clear sound with the Salt Ice, or opt for a deeper and more muted sound with the Yoel, depending on their preference.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Salt Ice has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes compared to the Yoel, which requires 53 grams of force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Yoel is heavier with 60 grams, while the bottom out force of the Salt Ice is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Salt Ice may appeal to users who prefer a gentler typing experience or need to type for longer periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Yoel offers a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for users seeking faster response times, such as gamers. However, the Salt Ice has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Yoel. For those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing or gaming, the Salt Ice may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a more immediate and snappy feel, the Yoel with its slightly shorter travel distance could be the preferred choice. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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 is known for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, delivering a vibrant feedback with an energetic and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a bright and clacky profile with a satisfying and pronounced resonance when keys reach the bottom-out point. Both switches share a similar bright and clacky sound profile, giving users a sharp and crisp auditory experience. However, the specific sound produced can also be influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is praised for its light touch and effortlessly actuation, providing users with a smooth typing experience. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel switch offers a delectably chewy typing sensation, enveloping fingertips with every press. The Yoel is described as creamy and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the specific feel of each switch may differ slightly, both switches aim to provide users with a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, both the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Salt Ice is known for its bright and clacky sound with a light touch, the Yoel delivers a chewy typing experience with a satisfying resonance. However, users can expect similar results in terms of a sharp and crisp sound profile and a smooth and refined typing feel when using either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the overall typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, your choice may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, along with a light touch for an energetic and responsive typing experience, then the Salt Ice may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that delivers a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, then the Yoel may be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing style and what attributes are most important to you when making your decision between these two unique switches.
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