HMX Cheese vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch for your mechanical keyboard, you are presented with two unique options. The HMX Cheese is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, along with its satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell stands out with its stunning purple hue and a balance of aesthetic beauty and functionality. Both switches offer a light and clacky typing experience that is comfortable and delightful over extended periods of use. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
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-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX Cheese and the Jerrzi Seashell, it is clear that they both have unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Cheese's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a more clear and resonant profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. Despite their differences, both materials play a crucial role in determining the sound output of the switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing of the switches, both the Cheese and the Seashell feature nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound due to its softer plastic composition. As a result, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, creating a more rounded and dull sound. While the top and bottom housings of the switches are made from the same material, their specific placement within the switch impacts how they contribute to the overall sound quality and typing experience.
Overall, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials for switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired sound profile. While the Cheese and the Seashell offer different sound characteristics due to their housing materials, both provide unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound with the Cheese's nylon housing or a sharper and more resonant sound with the Seashell's polycarbonate housing, both switches offer high-quality performance and sound profiles that cater to different typing styles and preferences.
Weight
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch's 45 grams. Both switches have a relatively close actuation force, so users will get similar results in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force of the Cheese switch is 46 grams, while the Seashell switch does not have a specified bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Cheese switch may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Seashell switch might be a better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Cheese linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for quicker response times. Choosing between the two would come down to personal preference - if you prefer a slightly more responsive feel, the Seashell may be the better option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bit more depth in your key presses, the Cheese may be more suitable. Overall, the differences in travel distance between the two switches are quite minimal, so you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.99.
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 HMX Cheese linear switch is best known for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, providing a unique typing experience that is both audible and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. While both switches have their own distinct sound profiles, they share the common element of providing an engaging auditory feedback during typing sessions, making them both appealing choices for keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch offers an unparalleled smoothness and typing experience, providing a pristine feel with ultra-light actuation. Although specific descriptors for the Cheese switch's feel are not provided, we can infer that it offers a comfortable and delightful typing experience based on its characteristics. The Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, on the other hand, is described as feathery, easy-to-press, and polished, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and provides a smooth key travel experience. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use, making them suitable options for extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the HMX Cheese and Jerrzi Seashell linear switches have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, they both offer a satisfying typing experience that combines aesthetics with functionality. Whether you prefer the crispy sound of the Cheese switch or the sharp feedback of the Seashell switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either choice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a light bottom out force of 46 grams and enjoy a smooth and crisp typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound, then the HMX Cheese switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are drawn to the stunning aesthetic of the Seashell switches with a bottom out force that is unavailable, and you value a feathery and easy-to-press typing feel with a polished finish, then the Jerrzi Seashell switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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