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KTT Lightning vs. Jerrzi Seashell

An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When comparing the KTT Lightning and the Jerrzi Seashell mechanical keyboard switches, we see that both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. The Lightning is a linear switch best known for its speed and precision, making it ideal for competitive gaming where milliseconds can make a difference. On the other hand, the Seashell switch is also a linear switch but stands out with its beautiful purple hue and light, clacky feel that enhances the typing experience. While both switches are categorized as clacky and polished, the Lightning offers a more high-pitched and chirpy sound profile, while the Seashell switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and specific use cases. 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

43g

Actuation force

45g

Bottom-out force

50g

Bottom-out force

N/A

Pre-travel

1.00 mm

Pre-travel

1.20 mm

Total travel

3.00 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

Plate (3-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

Stainless steel

Housing materials

The housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Jerrzi Seashell are quite similar as they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Lightning features nylon while the Seashell also opts for nylon. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.

Despite the shared polycarbonate top housing, the KTT Lightning and the Jerrzi Seashell offer distinct characteristics in their bottom housing material. The use of nylon in both switches creates a unique typing experience, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, influencing how the keys respond when pressed down. While the top housing mainly affects the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience, showcasing the importance of both materials in switch design.

In summary, while the KTT Lightning and the Jerrzi Seashell share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The Lightning's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper sound while the Seashell's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller sound. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in each switch highlights the importance of considering how each component contributes to the overall sound and feel of mechanical keyboards.

Weight

The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch differ slightly. The Lightning switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Seashell's 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Lightning requires 50 grams, which is known, while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Lightning switch would be the better choice due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, if a heavier push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Seashell switch might be more suitable, although its bottom out force is not specified. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is preferred.

Travel distance

The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Seashell has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lightning. Both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum when considering traditional travel distances, which range from 4.0 mm down to 3.0 mm. Gamers may prefer the Lightning switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, enabling faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Seashell switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for key travel depth and desired responsiveness.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

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.

The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.

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 KTT Lightning and the Jerrzi Seashell switches offer a clacky typing experience with a sharp and crisp sound profile. The Lightning switch adds a high-pitched element to its sound, while the Seashell switch maintains a similar clacky tone. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used in conjunction with them.

Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Lightning switch is noted for its subtle resistance, providing a light typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. Additionally, it offers a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Seashell switch is described as feathery, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It also boasts an easy-to-press feature for a responsive and low-impact typing experience, along with a polished finish for sleek key travel.

In conclusion, both the KTT Lightning and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switches offer a clacky sound profile, making typing an enjoyable experience. While the Lightning switch provides a subtle resistance and polished finish for smooth typing, the Seashell switch focuses on a feathery feel and easy-to-press design, ideal for prolonged typing sessions with minimal finger strain. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and aesthetic appeal. Whether opting for the Lightning or Seashell linear switch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailor-made to your preferences.

Conclusion

Ultimately, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and needs. If you value speed and accuracy in gaming or fast typing scenarios, the Lightning switch with its light bottom out force and snappy feel may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a unique aesthetic appeal combined with a comfortable typing experience, the Seashell switch with its stunning purple hue and light, clacky feel might be more suitable for your usage. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to what qualities you prioritize in a keyboard switch. Make your decision based on whether you lean toward the speed and precision of the Lightning or the aesthetic beauty and comfort of the Seashell.

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