Gateron Luciola vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Luciola and the Jerrzi Seashell mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two unique options that cater to different preferences and needs. The Luciola stands out for its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature and medium heft, offering a smooth and bouncy typing experience accompanied by a distinctive sound profile. On the other hand, the Seashell impresses with its stunning purple color and light, clacky feel that ensures a comfortable typing experience even during extended use. While the Luciola may appeal to those looking for a snappy and polished typing sensation, the Seashell is ideal for individuals seeking a feathery and easy-to-press key feedback. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Jerrzi Seashell both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a thinner and higher-pitched sound compared to the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. However, both materials are known for their clear and resonant sound profiles, making them suitable for switches with RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate material used in the Seashell's top housing gives it a translucent appearance, while the Luciola's INK blend remains opaque.
The differences in the bottom housing materials also play a significant role in the sound produced by the switches. The Luciola's INK blend bottom housing contributes to a thin and clacky sound profile, while the Seashell's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This contrasts with the sharper and more resonant sound produced by the harder polycarbonate material used in the Seashell's top housing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for a switch can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. While the Gateron Luciola and Jerrzi Seashell use different materials for their top and bottom housings, they both aim to create a satisfying typing experience for users. The combination of a stiffer top housing with a softer bottom housing in the Seashell may result in a unique sound profile, whereas the Luciola's consistent use of INK blend materials ensures a more uniform sound throughout typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is evident that the Luciola has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Seashell's lighter 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Luciola is also heavier at 60 grams, while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. The Luciola provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Seashell's lighter actuation force may be more suitable for those looking for a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference based on typing style and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Luciola has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Seashell. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for fast response times. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - opting for the Luciola if you prefer a bit more depth in the key press, and the Seashell if you prefer a slightly quicker and more responsive feel. Overall, while there is a slight difference in travel distance between the two switches, they both offer relatively similar experiences in terms of key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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, both the Gateron Luciola and Jerrzi Seashell switches are described as clacky and high-pitched. This means that they both produce sharp and crisp sounds when pressed, which can be bright and percussive. This similarity suggests that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a similar sound profile that is satisfying and provides a unique auditory feedback while typing. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's build and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Luciola is characterized as snappy and buttery, offering a smooth and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell is described as feathery and easy-to-press, providing a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches also share the descriptor of polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing feel. Despite these differences in feel descriptors, both switches aim to offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience that caters to the needs of keyboard enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Gateron Luciola and Jerrzi Seashell linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to diverse preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. While the Luciola switch has a bouncy typing feel and a hollow sound profile reminiscent of a can of spray paint being shaken, the Seashell switch features a stunning purple hue and offers a more light and clacky typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Luciola or Seashell switch, you can expect a delightful typing experience that combines aesthetic appeal with functional design. Consider your personal preferences for sound and feel when selecting the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Luciola linear switch or the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy switches that glow in the dark with a smooth and bouncy typing feel, the Luciola may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a switch with no specified bottom out force and a stunning purple hue, along with a light and clacky typing experience, the Seashell switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and aesthetics. Whether you prioritize a more substantial typing experience with the Luciola or a lighter and more vibrant one with the Seashell, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your overall typing satisfaction.
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