Outemu Ocean vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Outemu Ocean and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Ocean and Jerrzi Salt Ice stand out in their unique ways. The Ocean is a tactile switch, offering a subtle bump at the actuation point for users who prefer a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Salt Ice is a linear switch, known for its exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics with a light touch. The Salt Ice switches provide vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, making them ideal for users seeking an energetic and responsive typing experience. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, both the Outemu Ocean and the Jerrzi Salt Ice utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that utilize RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the design. However, the Ocean features a nylon bottom housing, while the Salt Ice sticks with polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing.
In terms of sound, the Outemu Ocean's nylon bottom housing elicits a deep and fuller sound profile compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing material may lead to a noticeable difference in typing experience between the two switches. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both switches maintain a similar crisp sound profile thanks to their polycarbonate top housing.
When considering the overall typing experience, the difference in housing materials between the Outemu Ocean and the Jerrzi Salt Ice may impact the feel and sound of the switches differently. While the top housing contributes to the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the nylon bottom housing of the Ocean may offer a more satisfying typing experience with a deeper sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice may provide a clearer and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch with an actuation force of 45 grams. The actuation force of the Ocean switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience, while the Salt Ice switch offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a gentler keystroke. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it difficult to compare them in this aspect. Those who prefer lighter switches may lean towards the Salt Ice for longer typing sessions, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Ocean switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Ocean tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered more traditional, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distances. Gamers may appreciate the quicker response time of the Salt Ice switch due to its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may prefer the Ocean switch with its longer travel distance. In general, the choice between the two switches would ultimately depend on personal preference 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 Outemu Ocean 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 Ocean and Salt Ice switches have distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ocean switch remains neutral in terms of sound, maintaining a quiet typing experience suitable for those who prefer a more subtle auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switch boasts a lively and clacky sound profile, appealing to individuals seeking a more vibrant and energetic typing experience.
In regard to feel, the Ocean switch offers a tactile typing experience with a certain level of feedback, providing a satisfying response for users who enjoy a tactile bump while typing. Conversely, the Salt Ice switch offers a smooth and linear typing experience, without the tactile bump present in the Ocean switch. This linear feel is ideal for users who appreciate a consistent keystroke without any interruptions.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a quieter and tactile typing experience, the Ocean switch may be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy a livelier and smooth typing experience with more audible feedback, the Salt Ice switch would be the more suitable choice. Regardless of the choice, both switches provide quality performance, and depending on the other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Ocean tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and the kind of typing experience you are looking for. If you value a tactile response and a satisfying typing experience without a bottom out force, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and clacky typing experience with a light touch, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing feel and sound you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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