Gateron Aliaz vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Aliaz and the Jerrzi Seashell. The Aliaz switch is known for its quiet design, making it ideal for office environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. With a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel to each keystroke, the Aliaz switch provides a more pronounced typing feedback without the usual clatter. On the other hand, the Seashell switch stands out with its stunning purple hue, combining aesthetic beauty with functionality. It offers a light and clacky typing experience that is both comfortable and enjoyable, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts. While the Aliaz is described as 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished', the Seashell is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Feathery', 'Easy-to-press', 'High-pitched', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their unique features and advantages, offering different typing experiences for users. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Aliaz and the Jerrzi Seashell utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature, which provides a clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. The Aliaz and Seashell switches offer similar acoustic characteristics in their top housing, resulting in a consistent auditory experience for users who prefer this type of sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Gateron Aliaz features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Jerrzi Seashell utilizes a nylon bottom housing. This distinction affects the sound produced when typing on the switches - the Aliaz with polycarbonate delivers a sharper sound, while the Seashell with nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a slightly duller and rounder sound experience. Users who prefer a softer and more muted sound may gravitate towards the Seashell switch for a different typing experience compared to the Aliaz.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it is important to note that the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. While both the Gateron Aliaz and the Jerrzi Seashell feature differences in their housing materials, users can expect distinct typing experiences based on the combination of polycarbonate and nylon used in each switch. Ultimately, preferences for sound profile and typing feel will dictate which switch is best suited for individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz is heavier in both aspects. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, whereas the Seashell has an actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom out force. The Aliaz offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier force requirements, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Seashell provides a lighter typing experience with its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those who prioritize extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Overall, while the Aliaz is heavier in terms of force requirements, both switches offer different benefits based on user preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is on the longer side compared to the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Aliaz offers a more traditional keypress feel with its 4 mm travel distance, while the Seashell provides a slightly shorter travel distance for those looking for a quicker response time. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer switches with shorter travel distances for faster reaction times during gameplay. However, those who enjoy a more tactile and in-depth keypress experience may prefer the longer travel distance offered by the Aliaz switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Jerrzi Seashell has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Seashell for $2.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch offers a muted typing experience, ideal for quiet environments such as an office setting. This switch minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, providing a softer and more subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, producing sharp and crisp sounds with each keystroke. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, the Aliaz would be the better choice, while the Seashell switch is more suitable for those who enjoy a more lively and percussive sound.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz tactile switch is described as silky and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. These switches reduce friction and provide a sleek key travel, enhancing the overall smoothness of typing. Conversely, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal exertion from your fingers. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, making it comfortable for various tasks such as gaming, schoolwork, or office work. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Aliaz provides a more substantial feel with its medium-heavy weight, while the Seashell offers a lighter and more effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is perfect for those seeking a quiet and substantial typing experience, with its muted sound and smooth key feel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is a great choice for those who prefer a more lively sound profile and a feathery typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference, with the Aliaz offering a more pronounced feedback and the Seashell providing a lighter and more effortless typing experience. Both switches are excellent options for keyboard enthusiasts looking for unique and enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that excels in a quiet environment and provides a medium-heavy weight for a pronounced typing feedback, then the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize a stunning aesthetic with a light and clacky typing experience that remains comfortable over long sessions, then the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and atmosphere in which you will be using the keyboard. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so carefully consider what you value most in your typing experience before making your decision.
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