Dareu Holly vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Holly and the Jerrzi Seashell. The Dareu Holly is a tactile switch with a medium 50g actuation force, known for its unique sound signature combining chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell is a linear switch with a stunning purple hue, offering a light and clacky feel that is enjoyable and comfortable for long typing sessions. The Seashell switch is also characterized by its feathery, easy-to-press, high-pitched, and polished attributes, making it appealing to any keyboard enthusiast. While the Holly switch appeals to those looking for a more tactile experience, the Seashell switch caters to users seeking a smooth and precise typing feel. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and Jerrzi Seashell both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for being relatively stiff, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful when using RGB lighting, as it allows for the light to shine through. The similarities in their polycarbonate top housings means that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic qualities from both switches.
However, where the Holly and Seashell differ is in their bottom housings. The Holly utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Seashell also features a nylon bottom housing, so in terms of the bottom housing material, both switches will provide a similar typing experience with a deep and full sound profile.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials in a switch are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This means that even though the Dareu Holly and Jerrzi Seashell may have different bottom housings, the overall typing experience and sound profile may still be quite similar due to the shared polycarbonate top housing.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force. The Holly switch would provide a slightly heavier typing experience due to its higher actuation force, while the Seashell switch would offer a lighter touch. The Holly switch may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial typing feel, while the Seashell switch could be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. In terms of weight, the Seashell switch is slightly lighter than the Holly switch, making it a good option for extended use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Holly has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Seashell. This means that the Holly switch will require a bit more depth to actuate compared to the Seashell. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Holly being on the longer side and the Seashell on the shorter side. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Seashell with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more robust feel when pressing down on a key may prefer the Holly with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience one is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 Dareu Holly tactile switch stands out for its unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, creating a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offers a crisp, bright, and percussive clacky sound that is complemented by a high-pitched tone. Both switches provide an enjoyable typing experience that caters to different preferences, whether you prefer a more unique and balanced sound profile or a sharper and brighter tone. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Holly switch's tactile qualities were not explicitly described, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is characterized by its feathery and easy-to-press nature. The Seashell switch offers a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions, whether for gaming, school, or work. Additionally, the polished finish of the Seashell switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and seamless key travel. While the specific feel of the Holly switch is not detailed, users can expect a comfortable typing experience with both switches, albeit with different tactile characteristics.
In conclusion, the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Holly switch provides a distinctive chirpy and clacky sound profile, while the Seashell switch offers a sharp and percussive clack with a high-pitched tone. The feel of the switches varies, with the Seashell switch being described as light and easy-to-press, reducing finger fatigue and enhancing the overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches promise an enjoyable typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts, each offering its own set of subjective qualities that can cater to individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium actuation force and a unique sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky elements, then the Dareu Holly switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a stunning purple hue, a light and clacky feel, and a high-pitched sound profile, then the Jerrzi Seashell switch would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing experience. Both switches offer their own distinct features that cater to different typing preferences, so consider what matters most to you when making your selection.
Mentioned in this article
