KTT Darling vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Darling and the Jerrzi Seashell are two popular options to consider. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, is praised for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, paired with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. The switch delivers a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, offering a unique blend of tactile and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switches stand out with their stunning purple hue and light, clacky feel. They provide an enjoyable typing experience that remains comfortable and delightful even during long sessions. Each switch has its own set of characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Darling and Jerrzi Seashell both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. This common material choice between the two switches ensures that users can expect similar characteristics in terms of sound quality and aesthetics.
On the other hand, the difference in housing material comes in the form of the nylon bottom housing for both the Darling and Seashell switches. Nylon is renowned for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a less sharp and more rounded sound. This split in housing materials allows users to experience a combination of qualities, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release.
Overall, while the KTT Darling and Jerrzi Seashell switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference in the bottom housing material brings about distinct sound profiles. Users can enjoy the sharp, clear sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing, while also experiencing the deeper, fuller sound generated by the nylon bottom housing. This results in a versatile typing experience that caters to different preferences and allows for a unique sound profile based on keypresses.
Weight
Both the KTT Darling linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Darling has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it slightly heavier in comparison to the Seashell, which has an unknown bottom out force. The Darling switch provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Seashell switch's bottom out force remains a mystery. Depending on individual preferences, some may appreciate the heavier typing feel of the Darling switch for a more substantial typing experience, while others may opt for the lighter actuation force of both switches for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the actuation force of 45 grams in both switches ensures a consistent typing experience, with the difference lying in the bottom out force for those seeking a specific level of resistance.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular in the keyboard market. Gamers particularly favor shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making both the Darling and Seashell switches suitable choices for gaming setups. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly different tactile experience. Ultimately, if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Darling switch with its 3.5 mm travel distance may be the better option for you, while the Seashell switch with its 3.4 mm travel distance offers a slightly quicker response for those who prefer a more immediate feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 KTT Darling and Jerrzi Seashell switches are described as clacky and high-pitched. This means that they both produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, providing a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. The difference lies in the Darling switch offering a resonant sound profile, creating a more immersive auditory experience compared to the Seashell switch. However, the ultimate sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Darling is known for its bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like and lively feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Seashell switch offers a feathery and easy-to-press experience, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force not only reduces finger fatigue but also allows for comfortable typing over extended periods, making it ideal for various typing activities like gaming, school work, or professional tasks. Additionally, the Seashell switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience due to the materials used or factory lubing.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Darling and Jerrzi Seashell switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Darling switch provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a bouncy feedback and resonant sound, appealing to those who enjoy tactile and immersive experiences. On the other hand, the Seashell switch impresses with its stunning purple hue and light, clacky feel, making it a comfortable and delightful option for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a typing experience that feels chewy, substantial, and bouncy, then the KTT Darling switch would be a great choice for you. The pronounced bounciness and high-pitched, resonant sound profile of the Darling switch provide a satisfying tactile and auditory feedback that many users enjoy. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of None grams and a light, clacky feel that is easy on your fingers over extended typing sessions, then the Jerrzi Seashell switch might be the better option for you. The stunning purple aesthetic and light, clacky typing experience make the Seashell switch a delightful choice for keyboard enthusiasts looking for both functionality and visual appeal. Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Darling and Jerrzi Seashell switches will depend on your specific preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and aesthetic design. Choose the switch that best suits your individual needs and enjoy a satisfying typing experience tailored to your liking.
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