PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jerrzi Seashell, both linear switches. The PH Studio Jacaranda, manufactured by KTT, boasts a gentle bottom-out of 43.5g, making it easy on the fingers and perfect for fatigue-free typing. Its clacky sound signature provides a crisp and audible feedback with each press, while the extended 22mm spring gives each keystroke a uniquely bouncy sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switches offer a stunning purple hue and a light and clacky feel, making typing enjoyable and comfortable even during long sessions. While both switches share the 'Clacky' characteristic, they also have their own unique traits to offer. The Jacaranda is characterized by a 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Resonant' feel, whereas the Seashell is described as 'Feathery', 'Easy-to-press, and 'Polished'. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
39g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The PH Studio Jacaranda and the Jerrzi Seashell both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a popular choice for switches intended for customization. The use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures a similar sound experience and aesthetic appeal.
However, the housing materials of the Jacaranda and Seashell differ when it comes to the bottom housing. The Jacaranda uses a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. On the other hand, the Seashell also features a nylon bottom housing, meaning that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall sound profile of a switch, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housing. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. As a result, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Jacaranda and Seashell ensures a well-rounded typing experience that balances sharpness, resonance, and depth in sound.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams compared to the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Jacaranda requires 45 grams to bottom out, while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. The Jacaranda switch is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Seashell switch may be better suited for individuals who prefer a slightly heavier keystroke feel. Both switches provide different experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, so users can choose based on their personal preference for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users who prioritize quick responses. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance for faster reaction times during gameplay. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Jacaranda switch with its slightly longer travel distance to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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, both the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch are described as clacky and high-pitched, providing a sharp and crisp sound with each press. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a similar auditory experience that is satisfying and pleasant to the ears. Keep in mind that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda switch is often described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Seashell switch is likened to being feathery, providing a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and makes extended typing sessions comfortable. Additionally, the Seashell switch is easy to press and polished, further contributing to a smooth and refined typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and effortless typing feel, ensuring that your fingers remain comfortable even during prolonged use.
In conclusion, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch may offer a slightly bouncier sensation due to its extended 22mm spring, both the Jacaranda and Seashell switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their clacky sound profile and smooth feel. Whether you choose the Jacaranda for its distinct characteristics or opt for the Seashell for its stunning purple hue, you can expect a comparable typing experience that is both enjoyable and comfortable. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific qualities that you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch or the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, you should opt for the Jacaranda if you value a light bottom-out force of 43.5g, enjoy a clacky sound signature, and prefer a silky typing feel that minimizes resistance. The extended 22mm spring in the Jacaranda also provides a bouncy sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Seashell switch may be more suitable for you if you appreciate a stunning purple hue, a clacky sound profile, and a feathery, easy-to-press feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice between these switches should align with your preferences for typing experience, sound, and aesthetic appeal.
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