Huano Grape Orange vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Grape Orange and the Jerrzi Seashell present two appealing options for enthusiasts, each boasting their unique strengths. The Grape Orange switches are celebrated for their remarkably light 40g actuation force, which ensures a smooth and effortless typing experience, making them an excellent choice for long writing sessions where comfort is key. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell switches not only captivate users with their striking purple aesthetic but also offer a delightful blend of lightness and a satisfying clacky sound profile, creating a joyful typing ambiance. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable experience for extended use; however, their distinct characteristics cater to different preferences. While the Grape Orange emphasizes a more traditional, muted approach to typing, the Seashell entices with its playful acoustic feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your personal priorities—finesse in feel or auditory pleasure—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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Huano Grape Orange and the Jerrzi Seashell both utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which is significant as it enhances the auditory experience of each switch. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when keystrokes are executed. The clear nature of polycarbonate not only allows for a more vibrant RGB lighting display within the switches but also ensures that these switches produce clear and resonant sounds that are desired by those seeking an enhanced typing experience. Therefore, since both the Grape Orange and the Seashell share polycarbonate in their top housings, they are likely to deliver similar auditory qualities when pressed, particularly when it comes to the sound produced as the keys are released.
In terms of their bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, a material revered for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to more rigid plastics, resulting in a rounder and duller sound that helps balance the sharper notes provided by the polycarbonate tops. This consistency in housing material across both switches means that users will likely experience a similar feel and acoustic performance from both models, particularly in terms of bottom-out sounds and tactile feedback. The combination of nylon on the bottom and polycarbonate on the top creates a well-rounded audio character that can satisfy both comfort and auditory preferences.
However, it's important to note that the impact of each housing material varies throughout the keystroke. While the polycarbonate top significantly affects the sound produced upon releasing a key, the nylon bottom plays a crucial role in the sound and sensation felt when the key is pressed down. The alignment of these materials ensures that while both switches can provide an overall cohesive sound experience, the specific character—sharp versus deep—will manifest differently depending on whether the user is pressing or releasing. This synergy in design means that even minor variances in the tactile experience and sonic qualities can enhance the overall performance of both the Huano Grape Orange and Jerrzi Seashell switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Grape Orange requires a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Seashell switch has a slightly higher actuation force at 45 grams, which provides a more substantial push feel, though its bottom out force remains unknown. This means that while the Grape Orange is the lighter option, appealing to those who favor ease of use, the Seashell's actuation force suggests it's geared toward users seeking a firmer typing experience. Overall, if you desire a softer touch for longer gaming or work sessions, the Grape Orange would be the better choice, while the Seashell might cater to those who appreciate a bit more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Seashell measures at 3.4 mm. This means that the Grape Orange offers a slightly longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the Seashell's shorter travel distance could cater to gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter distances are increasingly popular for that purpose. Therefore, if you value a deeper sensation while typing or gaming, the Grape Orange may be the better choice, while the Seashell would be ideal for those who favor a brisk and snappy key response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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 Huano Grape Orange switch is not specifically detailed in the provided information, but given its nature as a linear switch, one can anticipate that it would produce a softer, more muted sound compared to tactile or clicky switches. Conversely, the Jerrzi Seashell switch has a distinctly clacky character, producing a sharp, snappy sound with a crisp and bright tone. This higher-pitched sound profile adds a pleasant auditory experience that many keyboard enthusiasts appreciate, particularly in a crowded or energetic environment. However, it’s important to remember that sound is also influenced by the choice of keyboard construction and keycap material, and both switches may ultimately yield a similar subdued noise level when paired with specific components.
On the feel front, the Grape Orange switch is designed to provide an exceptionally light typing experience, with a notably low actuation force of 40 grams. This feature aligns closely with the Jerrzi Seashell switch, which is characterized by its feathery touch and easy-to-press nature, minimizing finger fatigue and making it ideal for long typing sessions. In fact, the Seashell offers a combination of light resistance and polished action, ensuring a smooth and refined key press. Both switches promise a comfortable experience, making them suitable for users who spend significant time on their keyboards, whether for gaming, school, or work.
Overall, both the Huano Grape Orange and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switches cater to those seeking a light and enjoyable typing experience, yet they diverge in their auditory qualities, with the Seashell offering a more pronounced sound profile. If you prefer a quieter setup, the Grape Orange may be the way to go. Nevertheless, both switches excel in providing a tactile delight that minimizes fatigue, ensuring a pleasant experience for extended use. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preferences regarding sound and aesthetics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your specific typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, especially for extended sessions of typing or gaming, the Grape Orange is an excellent choice. Its low actuation force of 40 grams allows for minimal finger fatigue, making it ideal for those who spend hours on their keyboards. In contrast, if you appreciate both aesthetics and performance, the Seashell switch offers a visually appealing purple hue paired with a delightful clackiness that adds character to your typing. Its feathery and easy-to-press feel can still provide comfort during long sessions, making it a joy for keyboard enthusiasts who enjoy auditory feedback with their keystrokes. Choose the Grape Orange for a smoother, lower-impact feel and prolonged comfort, while the Seashell is perfect if you're looking for a lively, engaging sound along with a gorgeous design. Your choice will ultimately depend on whether you value a softer touch or the engaging auditory experience accompanying your keystrokes.