Gazzew LT vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew LT and the Jerrzi Seashell, both being linear switches. The Gazzew LT switches are best known for their enticing lilac hue and the auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness they produce with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switches captivate users with their stunning purple hue and a balance of aesthetic beauty and functionality, providing a comfortable and delightful typing experience. The LT switches are categorized as 'Bassy', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', while the Seashell switches are described as 'Clacky', 'Feathery', 'Easy-to-press', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. While the LT switches offer a seamless glide and a bass-heavy sound profile, the Seashell switches are light, clacky, and easy-to-press, making them suitable for 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.20 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 Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and Jerrzi Seashell both offer unique housing materials that significantly impact the sound profile of the switches. The Gazzew LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," provides a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffness. While the LT's top housing focuses on delivering a softer, more resonant sound, the Seashell's top housing emphasizes clarity and brightness in the sound produced.
While the Gazzew LT features a Gazzew blend bottom housing for a rich and deep sound profile, the Jerrzi Seashell utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound experience. The Gazzew blend bottom housing, like the top housing, emphasizes softness for a more dulcet sound quality, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Seashell absorbs more sound due to its softness, resulting in a rounder and more muffled sound. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, highlighting the importance of choosing the right material to achieve the desired sound profile.
In the comparison between the Gazzew LT and Jerrzi Seashell housing materials, it's evident that each material contributes unique qualities to the sound profile of the switches. The Gazzew blend top and bottom housing emphasize softness for a rich and resonant sound, while the Seashell's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing focus on clarity, brightness, and fuller sound experience. Despite their differences, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether choosing the LT or Seashell, selecting the housing material that aligns with your sound preferences is crucial for a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Gazzew LT linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch have different characteristics when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The LT has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it requires no force to trigger a keystroke, while the Seashell has an actuation force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the LT has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy, whereas the bottom out force of the Seashell is unknown. In terms of weight, the LT is heavier due to its bottom out force, while the Seashell is lighter because of its lower actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Seashell may be a better option, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the LT. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Seashell being slightly longer than the LT. Gamers might prefer the LT for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times during intense gaming sessions. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the LT to be too abrupt, and may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Seashell for a more satisfying keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the Gazzew LT linear switch offers a deep and rich bassy thockiness, creating a satisfying auditory experience with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. Depending on personal preference, individuals may favor the deeper tones of the LT or the crispness of the Seashell. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, information on the Gazzew LT linear switch is not provided, so we can only focus on the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch. The Seashell switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal force for activation. This light actuation force not only enhances typing speed but also reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the polished finish of the Seashell switch ensures smooth key travel, further adding to the overall typing comfort.
Overall, both the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the LT excels in providing a deep and thocky sound profile, the Seashell switch stands out with its feathery and easy-to-press typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, individuals can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. If both switches are used with a high-quality keyboard and compatible keycaps, users can expect to achieve similar levels of satisfaction in terms of performance and overall typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gazzew LT linear switch or the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a deep, resonant thock sound profile, along with a seamless typing experience, the Gazzew LT switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with an unknown bottom out force, a stunning purple aesthetic, and a light and clacky typing feel that remains comfortable over long sessions, the Jerrzi Seashell switches would be a fantastic option. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to make an informed decision that best suits your typing needs and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience in different ways.
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