Gateron Beer vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and Jerrzi Seashell offer unique qualities worth considering. The Gateron Beer switch stands out for its translucent green design inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle, offering a refreshing and light tactile experience with a stepped tactility that sets it apart from traditional switches. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell switch boasts a stunning purple hue and provides a light and clacky typing experience that is comfortable and enjoyable for extended use. Both switches fall under the 'Clacky' category, making them ideal for those who appreciate a distinct sound while typing. 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
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Jerrzi Seashell, both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. However, the Jerrzi Seashell's top housing offers the same benefits and features as the Beer's, making them similar in sound and appearance when it comes to the top housing.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Beer uses polycarbonate, while the Jerrzi Seashell utilizes nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Beer contributes to a sharper sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Seashell offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material between the two switches results in contrasting sound and feel when typing, with the Beer producing a sharper sound on bottom-out and the Seashell offering a rounder sound.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience. Both the Gateron Beer and the Jerrzi Seashell showcase the impact of materials like polycarbonate and nylon on sound quality. While they share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the contrasting bottom housings highlight the differences in sound produced by each switch. Whether a sharper and crisper sound profile from polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound from nylon, the housing materials of these switches offer unique experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is evident that the Beer is lighter in terms of actuation force at 38 grams compared to the Seashell's 45 grams. Additionally, the Beer also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Beer make it ideal for those who prefer a softer typing experience for extended periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Seashell may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. However, the differences in force between the two switches may not be significant enough for some users to notice a substantial difference in typing experience, resulting in similar results when using either switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, making them equally efficient for users who prefer a specific key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch are described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. However, the Seashell switch also offers a high-pitched sound, which can provide a sharper and more crisp sound experience compared to the Beer switch. Ultimately, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound, the Seashell switch would be the better choice.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is characterized as having an easy-to-press feel with stepped tactility, providing a subtle two-stage keystroke experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offers a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force for activation and reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Seashell switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience due to reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a lighter touch and smoother typing experience, the Seashell switch would be the preferred option.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While both switches provide a clacky sound, the Seashell switch also offers a high-pitched sound profile. In terms of feel, the Beer switch has an easy-to-press feel with stepped tactility, while the Seashell switch has a feathery, easy-to-press feel with a polished finish for smoother typing. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for sound, tactile feel, and typing experience. Regardless of your choice, both switches are sure to provide an enjoyable typing experience for any keyboard enthusiast.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Beer tactile switch or the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, you should opt for the Beer if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a unique, clacky sound with a stepped tactility that offers a subtle typing experience. On the other hand, if you appreciate a switch with a stunning purple hue, a light and clacky feel, and are looking for a switch that requires minimal exertion and offers a smooth, polished typing experience, then the Seashell may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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