Jerrzi Lotus V2 vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie stand out as two compelling options for enthusiasts looking for linear switches. The Lotus V2, with its sleek design and tailored feel, promises an understated yet enjoyable typing experience that caters to users who prioritize a smooth keystroke without any distractions. In contrast, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie excels with its medium-weight POM construction, offering a satisfying thocky sound profile that balances auditory pleasure with an incredibly smooth action, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy feedback while typing. Both switches underscore the diversity within linear options, appealing to different preferences in tactile experience and sound. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches are strikingly similar, as both models feature POM (polyoxymethylene) for their top and bottom housings. This commonality results in an identical sound profile for both switches, characterized by a deep, muted tone that's pleasing to the ear. The use of POM in housing not only facilitates a satisfying auditory experience but also enhances the overall tactile response, contributing to the enjoyment of typing or gaming on keyboards featuring these switches. The consistency in material also indicates that users can expect comparable performance in terms of sound dynamics and key feel.
With both the Lotus V2 and Sea Salt Smoothie relying on POM for their housings, the acoustic characteristics are reinforced through their design and material selection. Since the profiling is centered on achieving a muted, deep sound, users can look forward to similar experiences regardless of which switch they choose. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly pronounced during the bottom-out sound, leading to a refined keypress experience that feels cohesive. Hence, whether you opt for the Lotus V2 or the Sea Salt Smoothie, the expected feedback and sound produced when pressing and releasing the keys will be aligned, giving a unified quality to both switches.
In terms of performance, the POM material utilized in both the top and bottom housings results in a synergistic effect, combining to enhance the overall sound and feel. While each housing contributes distinct qualities, the uniformity of POM across both models ensures that the positive attributes—such as sound dampening and a smooth keystroke—are present throughout. As each switch is pressed, the characteristics of the bottom housing will play a vital role in the overall experience, just as the top housing will influence the sound of key release. Ultimately, whether users choose the Jerrzi Lotus V2 or the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, they can anticipate a harmonious typing experience enriched by the reliable properties of POM.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switches, the Lotus V2 requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Sea Salt Smoothie has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a lighter switch for longer usage without fatigue may gravitate towards the Lotus V2, while those who appreciate a slightly more substantial feel may favor the Sea Salt Smoothie. Unfortunately, the bottom out forces for both switches are currently unavailable, making it difficult to compare how each switch feels when pressed all the way down. However, since the actuation forces differ, users can expect varied typing experiences based on their preferences for lighter or heavier switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, it becomes clear that the Lotus V2 features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sea Salt Smoothie has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This difference means that the Lotus V2 may provide a more responsive experience, which is often favored by gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who prefer a feeling of depth in their key presses, offering a more substantial tactile experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will largely depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus a more tactile feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Lotus V2 has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus V2 for $3.59.
The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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
The sound profile of the Jerrzi Lotus V2 is currently unknown, which makes it difficult to directly compare it to the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie. The Sea Salt Smoothie is characterized by its thocky sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that many enthusiasts find appealing. The thockiness is often preferred for its deeper tone, which can enhance the typing experience. However, since we lack information about the Lotus V2's sound profile, it’s unclear how it would compare; sound is also influenced by the keyboard build and keycap choice, so this remains a variable to keep in mind.
When it comes to feel, the Jerrzi Lotus V2 does not have specific information available, making it impossible to draw a direct comparison to the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie. The Sea Salt Smoothie is noted for its medium weight, which balances resistance and ease of actuation, creating a sensation of smoothness that contributes to a pleasant typing experience. This switch is designed to perform well without being overly harsh or requiring excessive force. Without details on the Lotus V2's feel, any comparison remains speculative.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offers a clear advantage in sound with its thocky profile and a well-defined smooth feel, the Jerrzi Lotus V2 presents a mystery as we lack solid details regarding its qualities. For newcomers, choosing between these switches might hinge on their preferences regarding sound and feel; the Sea Salt Smoothie undeniably sets a high standard. Ultimately, you may find that both switches, if similar in characteristics, could provide an enjoyable optimal experience, yet further comparison would be easier if more information were available about the Lotus V2.
Conclusion
To summarize, when choosing between the Jerrzi Lotus V2 linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, you should consider your preferences for sound and feel as well as your intended use. If you are looking for a switch that provides a unique experience, the Lotus V2 might be attractive, especially if it offers qualities that correspond to your typing style and desired tactile feedback—though we note that specific details are currently unavailable. On the other hand, if you prioritize a medium-weight switch that balances performance and affordability, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is an excellent choice. It is praised for its thocky sound profile and exceptional smoothness, making it particularly suitable for both typing and gaming. In the end, your choice should reflect what aspects of a linear switch matter most to you, whether that be sound, feel, or budget, thus ensuring a satisfying typing experience tailored to your needs.
Mentioned in this article
