Gateron Ink Red vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red and the Jerrzi Seashell mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Ink Red is known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a light typing style. Its smooth and clacky sound profile, combined with effortless typing, offers a satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Seashell switches stand out with their stunning purple hue, adding a touch of aesthetic beauty to functionality. These switches are light and clacky, providing an enjoyable typing experience that remains comfortable even during long typing sessions. 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
60g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Jerrzi Seashell, one key difference lies in the top housing material used. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing, known for its relatively high-pitched and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Seashell utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual element to the switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Ink Red once again utilizes its proprietary INK blend, contributing to a thin and higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Seashell employs a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Overall, while both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, the Gateron Ink Red leans towards a thinner and clackier sound with its blend of materials, while the Jerrzi Seashell provides a sharper and crisper tone due to its polycarbonate top housing. However, both switches showcase how different housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is evident that both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initial keystroke activation. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Red requires 60 grams of force, providing a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Jerrzi Seashell, which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that while both switches offer a light actuation force, those seeking a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Gateron Ink Red for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and whether a lighter or heavier force is desired for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Seashell may appeal to those looking for quicker response times, particularly gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Ink Red may provide a more satisfying and pronounced keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and how it affects the overall typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Red linear switch is known for its crisp and clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, adding a sharp and percussive element to the typing experience. Both switches have unique acoustic characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Ink Red presenting a more neutral and chirpy sound, while the Seashell delivers a distinctive clacky and high-pitched tone. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, boasting smooth key travel and reduced friction for a refined feel. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell switch offers a feathery and easy-to-press sensation, requiring minimal force for activation and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with the Ink Red focusing on smoothness and a mild typing feel, while the Seashell emphasizes lightness and ease of pressing. Additionally, both switches feature a polished finish for enhanced smoothness and overall typing comfort.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Red excels in providing a neutral and chirpy sound with a silky and polished typing feel, the Seashell impresses with a clacky and high-pitched sound accompanied by a feathery and easy-to-press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, key feel, and overall typing experience. However, both switches guarantee a delightful and enjoyable typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring satisfaction and comfort during daily usage.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a medium actuation force and a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a crispy sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a stunning purple hue, a light and clacky typing experience, and a switch that remains comfortable and delightful during long typing sessions, the Jerrzi Seashell switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to evaluate what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
