HMX Blue Topaz vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz and the Jerrzi Seashell mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, users are presented with distinct characteristics to consider. The Blue Topaz stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a seamless typing experience with a visually appealing glittery housing and a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Seashell switches feature a striking purple hue, offering a blend of beauty and functionality with a light and clacky feel that ensures comfort and enjoyment during long typing sessions. While the Blue Topaz is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Seashell is known for being 'Feathery', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', and having multiple 'Easy-to-press' options. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Jerrzi Seashell, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. Thus, in terms of sound quality and visual aesthetics, users can expect similar results from both the Blue Topaz and the Seashell due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
On the other hand, the housing materials differ when it comes to the bottom housing of the switches. The Blue Topaz features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. Similarly, the Seashell also uses a nylon bottom housing, offering the same benefits of a deeper and fuller sound experience. Therefore, in terms of typing experience and sound quality, the nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a similar tactile feel and overall sound profile for users.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Blue Topaz and the Seashell are identical, their differing bottom housing materials offer unique characteristics to each switch. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing allow users to feel the impact of the material choice when pressing down on the switch and when releasing a key. Whether users prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper and fuller sound of nylon, both the Blue Topaz and the Seashell offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is 40 grams, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Seashell requires slightly more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Blue Topaz. In terms of bottom out force, the Blue Topaz has a force of 48 grams, which is known, while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. However, based on the information provided, we can see that the Blue Topaz is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Seashell. This means that the Blue Topaz may be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel may lean towards the Seashell, especially for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is 3.9 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Seashell has a slightly shorter travel distance than the Blue Topaz. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered traditional, while a 3.0mm travel distance is shallower. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Seashell a popular choice for gaming. However, some may find the shorter travel distance of the Seashell to feel too abrupt. Those who prefer a more substantial key feel may opt for the Blue Topaz with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience one is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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
In terms of sound, both the HMX Blue Topaz and Jerrzi Seashell linear switches offer a clacky sound profile, providing users with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. While the Blue Topaz is known for its distinctive glitter housing that enhances the auditory experience, the Seashell switch adds a high-pitched element to its sound profile, giving users a variety of crisp and bright tones to enjoy. Ultimately, whether you choose the Blue Topaz or Seashell switch, you can expect a satisfying clacky sound that adds a delightful auditory aspect to your typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switch provides a feathery feel, being exceptionally light to press and requiring little exertion from your fingers. This also reduces finger fatigue and offers a comfortable typing experience, particularly beneficial for extended gaming, school, or work sessions. Both switches deliver a low-impact and responsive typing feel, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users.
In conclusion, both the HMX Blue Topaz and Jerrzi Seashell linear switches offer users a satisfying typing experience with their clacky sound profiles and comfortable feel. While the Blue Topaz switch stands out with its glitter housing for added visual appeal, the Seashell switch adds a high-pitched sound element to the mix. Whether you prefer an easier-to-press switch like the Blue Topaz or a feathery feel like the Seashell, both switches offer a delightful typing experience that will cater to the preferences of keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a light and smooth actuation with a distinctive clacky sound, the Blue Topaz may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a visually striking purple hue and a feathery feel coupled with a clacky and high-pitched sound, the Seashell switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a delightful typing experience with their unique features, so choose based on your personal preferences for bottom out force and sound characteristics.
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