TTC Ice vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Ice and Jerrzi Seashell offer distinct experiences for typists and gamers alike, despite both being linear switches. The TTC Ice is known for its crystal-clear transparent design and delivers a smooth, responsive feel with a satisfying bottom-out sound, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a premium typing experience that excels in both gaming and everyday tasks. Conversely, the Jerrzi Seashell captivates with its stunning purple hue, combining aesthetic appeal with functionality. Notably light and clacky, the Seashell provides a delightful typing experience that remains comfortable during extended sessions, appealing to keyboard enthusiasts who appreciate a lively auditory feedback. While both switches offer engaging typing experiences, they cater to different preferences in aesthetics and sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Ice and the Jerrzi Seashell both feature polycarbonate top housings, which results in a similar sound profile characterized by sharper, higher-pitched tones and a clear resonance. The use of polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, enhances the overall auditory experience by producing a crisper sound that is particularly favorable for those who appreciate clarity in their keystrokes. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes these switches especially appealing for users who want to incorporate RGB lighting into their setups, as the material allows for better light diffusion and visual effects. This shared characteristic in the top housing gives both switch models a comparable lighting and sound performance, ensuring users can expect a lively auditory feedback regardless of their choice.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the TTC Ice and Jerrzi Seashell switch models present fundamental differences, which directly influence the overall sound and typing experience. The Ice employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements the top housing's properties and leads to a resonant and clear sound profile throughout the entire switch. On the other hand, the Seashell features a nylon bottom housing, which introduces a deeper and fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharpness of the polycarbonate. This discrepancy signifies that while the Ice maintains a uniform sound character from top to bottom, the Seashell’s dual-material construction delivers a more complex auditory experience, blending the clarity of the polycarbonate with the warmth of the nylon.
Ultimately, the materials used in the TTC Ice and Jerrzi Seashell switches highlight not only the importance of housing materials in defining sound profiles but also the interplay between different materials in achieving distinct auditory experiences. While both switches share a similar upper housing design that ensures clarity and sharpness, the bottom housing of the Seashell incorporates a softer material that significantly alters the sound characteristics during typing. Therefore, when considering which switch to choose, users should reflect on their preferences for auditory feedback—whether they prioritize uniformity in clarity across the entire switch or appreciate the contrasting sound profiles created by varying materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which suggests they will provide a similar keystroke response for users who appreciate a balanced typing feel. This consistency means that users can expect a comparable level of effort when triggering a keypress, making both switches suitable for long typing sessions without causing excessive fatigue. However, the TTC Ice switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that it requires a bit more pressure to reach the maximum depth of travel, which could appeal to those who enjoy a more tactile and substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown, leaving a gap in this comparison. Overall, due to the Ice switch's defined forces, it can be classified as the heavier option for those who prefer more resistance, while the Seashell, with its lighter actuation force, may cater to users seeking a softer touch — assuming its bottom out force aligns with this lighter feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, the TTC Ice has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This means that if you opt for the Seashell switch, you'll experience a quicker response due to its reduced travel distance, which aligns with the preferences of many gamers who seek faster key presses. On the other hand, the TTC Ice's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile experience for those who appreciate a little more depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference: if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Seashell's shorter travel distance may be the better option; conversely, if you prefer a more substantial feel, the Ice might be the right fit for you.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Ice linear switch delivers a satisfying bottom-out sound that reflects its quality construction, offering a premium typing experience suitable for a variety of tasks, including gaming and everyday use. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched sound profile. This switch produces a bright and percussive tone that could be appealing to users who enjoy an auditory response to their keystrokes. While both switches offer enjoyable sound characteristics, the Ice presents a more subdued and refined auditory experience compared to the more vibrant and sharp sounds associated with the Seashell.
In terms of feel, the TTC Ice switch is recognized for its smooth and responsive actuation, allowing for effortless typing and gaming. In contrast, the Seashell switch provides a feathery lightness that makes it exceptionally comfortable for extended use; it requires minimal effort to press, reducing finger fatigue. Additionally, the Seashell is described as polished with a smooth finish, enhancing the typing experience through reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes the Seashell not only easy to press but also appealing for long typing sessions, whereas the Ice switch leans more towards a fluid, responsive interaction that is satisfying yet still robust.
In conclusion, both the TTC Ice and Jerrzi Seashell switches offer unique attributes that cater to different preferences. The Ice emphasizes a premium auditory quality and a smooth feel, making it a versatile option for both gaming and general use. The Seashell, with its light and clacky mechanism, brings a vibrant auditory and tactile experience that may appeal to enthusiasts looking for a joyous and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, while both switches have their strengths, they can deliver similar pleasant results depending on the user's preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams that provides a smooth and responsive typing experience, the Ice switch could be your best bet. It delivers a satisfying bottom-out sound, making it suitable not only for intense gaming but also for everyday typing tasks, combining performance with an aesthetically pleasing crystal-clear design. On the other hand, if you're looking for a light and clacky switch that offers an effortlessly enjoyable typing experience with reduced finger fatigue, the Seashell switch stands out. Its stunning purple hue and high-pitched sound give it a captivating charm, while its feathery feel allows for comfortable extended use, perfect for prolonged gaming sessions or long work hours. In essence, choose the Ice switch for a balanced and robust performance, and opt for the Seashell switch if you prioritize light, enjoyable typing and aesthetic appeal.
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