Kailh Box Jade vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the Kailh Box Jade, a clicky switch, and the Jerrzi Seashell, a linear switch. The Box Jades are praised for their medium-heavy typing experience, clicky sound profile, and satisfying tactile bumps, making them perfect for those who enjoy a crunchy and invigorating typing feel. On the other hand, the Seashell switches stand out with their beautiful purple hue and offer a light and clacky typing experience that is easy on the fingers, making them a top choice for those seeking a comfortable and enjoyable typing session. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the Jerrzi Seashell both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. The similarities in their top housing materials mean that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches.
On the other hand, the Box Jade features a nylon bottom housing, while the Seashell also incorporates nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is praised for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. While both switches share the same material for their bottom housing, the impact of this material will be most noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel of each key press.
In terms of design and functionality, the housing materials of the Kailh Box Jade and the Jerrzi Seashell play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in different parts of the switches results in a unique sound profile that is influenced by the characteristics of each material. While both switches offer their own distinct typing feel and sound, users can appreciate the versatility and customization options provided by the different housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is evident that the Box Jade is slightly heavier in both aspects. The Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Seashell has an actuation force of 45 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Box Jade requires a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke and when fully pressed down, offering a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Seashell provides a lighter actuation force, which could be preferred by those who enjoy typing for extended periods without fatigue. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preferences, but overall, the Box Jade offers a heavier typing experience compared to the Seashell.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Box Jade being slightly longer than the Seashell. Gamers may prefer the Box Jade for its slightly longer travel distance, as it provides a bit more depth to each key press, potentially offering a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Seashell's shorter travel distance may appeal to those seeking faster response times and a more immediate key press. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Jade switches offer a high-pitched and crunchy sound profile, producing sharp and crisp clicks with crunchy tactile bumps that can be compared to stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switches have a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The sound from both switches is bright and percussive, making typing on either switch a satisfying auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so it's important to consider the overall setup when assessing sound quality.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Jade switches offer an invigorating and accented typing experience with moderate to firm actuation force and pronounced feedback, creating an immersive and tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switches are described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Seashell switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference for the level of tactility and actuation force desired.
In conclusion, both the Kailh Box Jade and Jerrzi Seashell switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Box Jade switches are known for their high-pitched and crunchy sound profile along with an invigorating and accented feel, while the Seashell switches provide a clacky and high-pitched sound with a feathery and easy-to-press feel. Depending on whether you prioritize a clicky sound with tactile feedback or a smooth and light typing experience, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person or considering your specific typing needs can help determine which switch is the best fit for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade switches would be the ideal choice for you. Their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps offer a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and clacky typing experience with a smooth key travel, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switches would be more suitable for you. Their stunning purple hue adds an aesthetic appeal to your keyboard, while their feathery feel and easy-to-press nature make them comfortable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile.
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