TTC Gold Red vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch with the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, there are distinct differences to consider. The Gold Red switch is praised for its buttery smooth typing experience and modest sound profile, providing a light-medium level of resistance. On the other hand, the Seashell switch stands out with its stunning purple hue and light, clacky feel, making it enjoyable for long typing sessions. The Gold Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Silky', while the Seashell is described as 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches offer a polished feel, but the Seashell switch adds a touch of aesthetic beauty to its functionality. 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
50g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the Jerrzi Seashell, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. This means that both switches will likely produce similar sound profiles and aesthetics due to their shared top housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Gold Red utilizes nylon while the Seashell also opts for nylon in their construction. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom housing material, despite potential differences in the overall design of the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Gold Red and the Seashell impacts the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. While they both share polycarbonate for the top housing, the use of nylon for the bottom housing creates differences in the sound profile. The Gold Red may offer a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, while the Seashell may provide a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the combination of these materials in each switch contributes to their unique typing feel and sound characteristics.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch's actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Red requires 50 grams, while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. The Gold Red switch offers a slightly lighter typing experience overall, which may be preferred by some users for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Seashell switch may provide a slightly more substantial typing feel due to its slightly higher actuation force. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but the Gold Red is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out force compared to the Seashell switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and key feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, which is considered a more traditional distance for a switch. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Seashell a potential choice for gaming enthusiasts. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Gold Red might be the preferred option due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 TTC Gold Red linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, adding a sharp and crisp element to your typing sessions. Both switches have their unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Gold Red leaning towards a richer tone and the Seashell offering a brighter and more percussive sound. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Gold Red switch is described as mild, silky, subtle, and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switch is characterized as feathery, easy-to-press, and polished, offering a light and effortless typing feel with minimal force required for activation. Both switches prioritize comfort and smoothness in typing, with the Gold Red emphasizing a gentle and approachable typing experience and the Seashell focusing on reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The polished finish of both switches contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Gold Red provides a deep and satisfying thocky sound with a smooth and polished typing feel, while the Seashell delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a feathery and easy-to-press typing experience. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, making them suitable choices for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a premium feel in their keyboards. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing feel, as both switches offer exceptional quality in their respective attributes.
Conclusion
In closing, as a newcomer navigating the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to consider your preferences and needs when choosing between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch. If you prioritize a light-medium level of resistance coupled with a buttery smooth typing experience and a neutral, low-pitched sound profile, the Gold Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a stunning purple hue, a light and clacky feel, and a switch that is easy-to-press with a polished finish, the Seashell switch might better suit your preferences. Ultimately, your selection should align with your typing style, preferences for sound and feel, and the overall aesthetic you desire for your keyboard setup. Happy typing!
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