Jerrzi Salt Ice vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Salt Ice and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Jerrzi Salt Ice and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches offer unique experiences that cater to different user preferences. The Salt Ice switches are celebrated for their exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, providing a vibrant feedback with a light touch that makes typing feel energetic and responsive. This lively feel can enhance productivity and responsiveness, appealing to those who thrive on engagement in their typing routines. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° prioritizes a quieter typing experience, thanks to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. This switch delivers a remarkably smooth and stable performance with a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound, making it a prime choice for users in shared environments or those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience. Both switches have their appealing qualities, whether you seek an energetic engagement or a whisper-quiet atmosphere. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Salt Ice and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches, notable similarities and differences emerge, particularly concerning the top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which inherently provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile characterized by clarity and resonance. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to this crisp sound quality, making both switches appealing to those who prioritize auditory feedback in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic aspect, especially for users who appreciate RGB lighting effects that illuminate through the housing, ensuring that both the Salt Ice and Zero Degree 0° can deliver visually striking setups without sacrificing sound performance.
Contrastingly, the bottom housings of the two switches reveal a significant difference in material choice. While the Salt Ice employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, yielding a similarly bright sound profile, the Zero Degree 0° opts for nylon. Nylon's softer nature tends to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that can feel more rounded compared to the crisper tones of polycarbonate. This divergence in bottom housing materials means that the auditory characteristics of the two switches will reflect these differences. The Salt Ice will produce a brighter sound when bottomed out due to the consistent properties of polycarbonate throughout, while the Zero Degree 0° will offer a more subdued and wholesome acoustic experience from the softness of the nylon in its bottom housing.
When it comes to the overall performance of each switch, the impact of the different bottom housing materials means that users will perceive distinct auditory experiences when typing. The sound produced when a switch is pressed down and the feel of bottoming out are greatly influenced by the bottom housing material. Thus, while both switches can provide an engaging typing experience through their similar polycarbonate top housings, the separation of sound characteristics based on the bottom housing will influence user preference. Ultimately, for enthusiasts considering either switch, this contrast may lead to a preferential choice based on desired sound profile—whether they lean towards the sharper tones of the Salt Ice or the smoother, fuller sound produced by the Gateron Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both feature an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they require the same amount of force to register a keystroke. This similarity suggests that users will experience a comparable ease of activation, making both switches suitable for extended typing sessions without causing undue strain. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unavailable, so we cannot directly compare how they feel when completely pressed down. This lack of information means we can't provide an exact comparison in that regard. In terms of weight preference, since both switches have the same actuation force, users who favor lighter switches for a more comfortable typing experience will find both the Salt Ice and the Zero Degree 0° linear switches equally appealing. Ultimately, those who prefer a heavier feel may need to look elsewhere, as neither option offers that characteristic.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is clear that they cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Salt Ice boasts a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Zero Degree 0° features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. For gamers and those who prioritize rapid key presses, the Salt Ice may offer a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, leading to quicker actuation. Conversely, users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke may prefer the Zero Degree 0° for its longer travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying depth during typing. Therefore, your choice between these two switches should align with your personal comfort and typing style.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 produces an exceptionally bright and clacky sound that gives an energizing auditory feedback during typing. This lively sound profile is particularly appealing to those who enjoy a more dynamic experience with a noticeable acoustic response. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch features a design aimed at silence, employing a self-padding mechanism that effectively absorbs sound. This results in a much quieter operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more discreet typing environment. While both switches provide a distinctly different auditory experience, the overall sound will ultimately depend on the choice of keyboard assembly, including the board and keycaps utilized.
When it comes to feel, the Salt Ice switch offers a light touch and vibrant feedback that results in a responsive and energetic typing experience. It is clearly designed for users who appreciate a more tactile interaction with each keystroke. Meanwhile, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch emphasizes smoothness and stability through its dual-rail structure, delivering a soft and elastic feel that enhances comfort during extended typing sessions. The Zero Degree’s innovative design prioritizes an effortless typing experience, appealing to users who desire a fluid feel without any distraction from noise.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch cater to different preferences, particularly in sound and feel. While the Salt Ice switch provides a vibrant and clacky typing experience, the Zero Degree emphasizes a silent, smooth sensation. Depending on individual typing preferences, users can choose between the energetic feedback of the Salt Ice or the quiet comfort of the Zero Degree, ensuring that both options will yield distinct yet satisfying results.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switches and Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switches largely hinges on your specific preferences and typing environment. If you prioritize a lively and engaging typing experience, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches are an excellent choice. Their vibrancy and clacky nature make them particularly appealing for those who enjoy tactile feedback and an energetic feel while typing. On the other hand, if you are looking for a peaceful typing experience with minimal noise, the Zero Degree 0° switches stand out due to their innovative design that significantly reduces sound and provides a soft, smooth touch. This makes them perfect for quieter work environments or late-night typing sessions where you don’t want to disturb others. Overall, your decision should reflect whether you value a more energetic and feedback-driven experience with the Salt Ice, or if you prefer the whisper-quiet and cushioned feel of the Zero Degree 0°.
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