Gateron CJ vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ and the Jerrzi Seashell mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The CJ stands out for its smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks, providing a pleasant typing experience categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the Seashell switches boast a beautiful purple hue and a light, clacky feel that is easy to press and categorized as 'Clacky', 'Feathery', 'Easy-to-press', 'High-pitched' and 'Polished'. While both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences, the CJ is more about smoothness and unique sound, while the Seashell focuses on aesthetics and comfort. However, let's dive 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
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and the Jerrzi Seashell both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The CJ's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a satisfying, higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky, while the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the Seashell's top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, giving it a visually appealing look. While both switches have different top housing materials, they both provide a similar experience in terms of sound clarity and pitch.
The CJ's POM bottom housing creates a deep and muted sound profile, while the Seashell's nylon bottom housing elicits a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, with the CJ offering a more muted sound and the Seashell providing a fuller sound experience. The choice of bottom housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with nylon offering a more absorbent quality compared to POM.
Overall, the Gateron CJ and Jerrzi Seashell switches offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. While the CJ features a blend of INK in the top housing and POM in the bottom housing, creating a satisfying and deeper sound experience, the Seashell utilizes polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing for a sharper and fuller sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a clacky sound or a crisp sound, both switches deliver excellent performance based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience. The CJ switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the Seashell switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Seashell switch potentially lighter in overall feel compared to the CJ switch. Weight preference is subjective, as some may favor the lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier force for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Seashell has a shorter travel distance compared to the CJ, which means that it requires less force and distance to actuate. This can result in faster response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers. On the other hand, the CJ with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel. Both switches offer different experiences, so it is important to consider what feels most comfortable and efficient for your typing needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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 CJ linear switch offers a chirpy and low-pitched sound profile, creating a unique typing experience with a touch of squeakiness. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, giving off a sharp and bright sound when typing. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, catering to different preferences in sound profiles. Depending on the overall setup of the keyboard and keycaps, users can expect to hear their desired level of sound output.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CJ switch provides a mild typing experience that falls within a safe and approachable middle ground, ensuring a comfortable typing session for most users. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue, making it ideal for extended typing sessions, whether it be for gaming, school, or work purposes. Additionally, the polished finish of the Seashell switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing feel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the CJ switch leans towards a chirpy and low-pitched sound with a mild typing feel, the Seashell switch presents a clacky and high-pitched sound with a feathery, easy-to-press typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, with both options guaranteeing an enjoyable and comfortable typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force, higher-pitched clacks, and a smooth push feel, the CJ switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a switch with no specified bottom out force, a stunning purple hue, light and clacky typing experience, and a combination of aesthetic beauty and functionality, the Seashell switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience you prioritize and what aesthetic qualities appeal to you the most. Happy typing!
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