Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Jerrzi Seashell mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to varying preferences. The Crystal Pro switches are renowned for their fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Seashell switches boast a stunning purple hue and offer a light and clacky feel, making typing enjoyable and comfortable for extended periods. While the Crystal Pro switches are categorized as bouncy, chirpy, polished, the Seashell switches are labeled as clacky, feathery, easy-to-press, high-pitched, easy-to-press, polished. However, let's explore beyond generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Jerrzi Seashell, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Seashell stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While the top housings of both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Jerrzi Seashell are made of polycarbonate, the bottom housings differ, with the V3 Crystal Pro featuring a polycarbonate bottom housing and the Seashell featuring a nylon bottom housing. The impact of the housing material on the sound profile and feel of the switch is split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This difference in bottom housing material contributes to the distinct sound profiles of the two keyboards.
In conclusion, while both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Jerrzi Seashell utilize polycarbonate top housings for a sharp, clear sound profile, the Seashell sets itself apart with a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro results in a crisper sound, while the softer nylon in the Seashell absorbs more sound for a rounder tone. The choice of housing materials in both keyboards influences the overall sound profile and typing experience, with each material bringing its own unique qualities to the table.
Weight
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch both offer a smooth keystroke experience, but there are differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Seashell's 45 grams, making it slightly more resistant to accidental keystrokes. When it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams of force to fully press the key, while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the V3 Crystal Pro is on the heavier side, which may provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a firmer keypress. On the other hand, the Seashell's lighter actuation force may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 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 V3 Crystal Pro. The V3 Crystal Pro falls closer to the traditional 4.0mm travel distance, offering a bit more depth when pressed. On the other hand, the Seashell's shorter travel distance of 3.4mm may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, catering to different preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its chirpy sound, which gives it a unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. While the Crystal Pro offers a bright and chirpy sound, the Seashell provides a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. The choice between the two would come down to personal preference on sound profile, as both switches offer distinct auditory experiences.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is characterized as bouncy and polished, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth typing experience. Conversely, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing responsive and low-impact typing feels, with the Crystal Pro focusing on a bouncier response and the Seashell emphasizing ease of pressing keys. Again, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Jerrzi Seashell switches each offer a unique sound and feel experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Crystal Pro stands out with its bright and chirpy sound in combination with a bouncy and polished typing feel, while the Seashell impresses with its clacky and high-pitched sound paired with a feathery and easy-to-press sensation. Depending on whether you prioritize sound profile or typing comfort, both switches provide excellent options for those seeking quality linear switches. Ultimately, trying out both switches firsthand may be the best way to determine which one suits your preferences and typing style the most.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a bright, chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are attracted to a stunning purple hue, and enjoy a light and clacky switch that is comfortable for long typing sessions, then the Seashell switch is the perfect choice for you. Consider whether you prioritize the bouncy and polished feel of the V3 Crystal Pro or the feathery and easy-to-press nature of the Seashell switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing needs and preferences.
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