Outemu Blue vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue and the Jerrzi Salt Ice offer distinct typing experiences. The Outemu Blue switch is well-known for its clicky sound and tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch stands out for its bright and clacky characteristics, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience with a light touch. While the Blue switch is ideal for users who prefer a loud and tactile experience, the Salt Ice switch is a great choice for those who seek a responsive and energetic 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Blue and Jerrzi Salt Ice both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Blue utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Salt Ice has a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining that sharper and crisper sound profile found in the top housing.
While both the Outemu Blue and Jerrzi Salt Ice share a polycarbonate top housing with similar sound characteristics, their different bottom housing materials result in distinct typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice maintains the sharp and clear sound profile, contributing more to the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials showcases how each component plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience and sound quality of a switch.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches such as the Outemu Blue and Jerrzi Salt Ice significantly influences the sound profile and typing feel. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharp and crisp sound, the difference in bottom housing materials sets them apart. The nylon bottom housing in the Blue contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience, while the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Salt Ice maintains a sharper sound profile. Understanding how these housing materials interact and impact the typing experience can help users make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is clear that the Blue has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Salt Ice's 45 grams. However, both switches do not have a specified bottom out force available. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Salt Ice may be the better option as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, the Blue switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force. Overall, both switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of actuation force, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Salt Ice a favorable choice in this aspect. However, some may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt, in which case the Blue switch with its longer travel distance would be preferred for a more in-depth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of keypress feedback.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Blue clicky switch is renowned for its satisfying and crisp click sound, providing a tactile and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch offers a quieter typing experience with a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. The sound produced by the Blue switch is sharp and distinctive, while the Salt Ice switch provides a softer and more subtle sound. The feel of the Blue switch is characterized by a tactile bump and clicky feedback, whereas the Salt Ice switch offers a seamless and linear keystroke without any feedback. Overall, the Outemu Blue switch is ideal for those who prefer a louder and more tactile typing experience, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch is perfect for users who prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities, and the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy loud and clicky switches with a tactile bump, the Outemu Blue switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a linear feel, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound. Both switches offer unique characteristics, so choose the one that aligns with your preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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