HMX Lucky vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lucky and the Jerrzi Seashell are two compelling options that cater to different preferences while sharing the allure of linearity. The HMX Lucky stands out with its glittery nylon housing, resulting in a neutral yet deeply satisfying typing feel that many users find remarkably pleasant, thanks to its clacky, bouncy, and polished characteristics. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell not only offers a striking purple aesthetic but also features a clacky and feathery touch, making each keystroke a delightful experience, especially during extended typing sessions. While both switches prioritize lightness and comfort, the Lucky emphasizes a refined typing experience, whereas the Seashell incorporates visual appeal alongside functionality. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lucky and the Jerrzi Seashell, notable differences arise, particularly in their top housing compositions. The Lucky utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer, more sound-absorbing properties. This results in a duller, rounder auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Seashell employs polycarbonate in its top housing, leading to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate’s stiffer nature enhances clarity and resonance, making it ideal for those who favor a crisp typing experience. These intrinsic material differences significantly influence the overall auditory responses of each switch.
Interestingly, while the top housing materials diverge, both switches share nylon as their bottom housing material. This commonality leads to a more profound and rounded sound profile when typing on either switch due to nylon's absorptive qualities. The experience of bottoming out while typing feels similar across both models, maintaining that characteristic deep sound. This shared bottom housing material means that the key feel and bottom-out sound will resonate similarly, ensuring that both switches provide a comparable resting experience despite the contrasts found in their top housing.
The impact of differing materials on the overall experience, however, cannot be overstated. While the bottom housing's nylon promotes a consistent auditory narrative when a key is pressed, the variation in top housing materials creates a duality that can appeal to different preferences. The Jerrzi Seashell’s polycarbonate top adds brightness and clarity, especially when RGB lighting elements come into play, revealing an aesthetic quality that complements its performance. Conversely, the HMX Lucky aims to deliver a warmer, smoother typing experience with its nylon top. Ultimately, both switches offer unique appeal through their housing compositions, catering to versatile user preferences in sound and aesthetic.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation force. The Lucky switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it ideal for those who favor ease of typing, especially during long work hours or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Seashell switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback when typing. While the Lucky’s bottom out force is rated at 43 grams, giving it a consistent and lightweight feel throughout use, the bottom out force for the Seashell is unknown. This lack of information may make it difficult to fully assess the overall typing experience of the Seashell switch. Consequently, users who prioritize a lighter switch for extended use would likely gravitate toward the HMX Lucky, whereas those who appreciate a firmer keystroke may prefer the Jerrzi Seashell.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it's clear that they differ in their depths. The HMX Lucky features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that for users who favor quicker response times, the Seashell switch may be more appealing due to its shorter travel distance, aligning with the preferences of many gamers. Conversely, the HMX Lucky offers a deeper feel with its 3.8 mm travel, which may be more satisfying for those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience. Therefore, while both switches provide unique benefits depending on user preference, the HMX Lucky is the longer option, and the Jerrzi Seashell is the shorter.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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 HMX Lucky and Jerrzi Seashell linear switches share a notable quality: they are both classified as clacky. This means that typists can expect a sharp, snappy sound when a key is pressed down, characterized by a crisp, bright, and percussive tone. As with any keyboard, the overall sound will also be influenced by external factors such as the choice of keyboard pan, construction, and keycap material. However, both switches inherently produce a similarly delightful auditory feedback that many enthusiasts appreciate during their typing experiences.
Regarding the feel of each switch, there are distinct differences that may influence a typist's preference. The Lucky switch is designed to provide a more dynamic typing experience, with a bouncy, silky, and polished sensation that allows for lively feedback and smooth key travel. This combination creates an engaging and satisfying tactile experience that many users find appealing. Conversely, the Seashell switch emphasizes a lighter touch with its feathery and easy-to-press characteristics, which reduces finger fatigue, making it a comfortable choice for extended typing sessions. Like the Lucky, the Seashell also boasts a polished finish that contributes to a smooth feel, ensuring both switches have their strengths in terms of tactile enjoyment.
In summary, while both the HMX Lucky and Jerrzi Seashell linear switches offer a clacky sound profile that enhances the auditory experience of typing, their tactile feedback diverges significantly. The Lucky provides a bouncier and more lively feel, ideal for users who enjoy a responsive typing experience, whereas the Seashell focuses on lightness and ease of pressing, which is excellent for those who prioritize comfort during long typing sessions. This makes both switches appealing, but the choice ultimately depends on personal preference regarding the desired typing feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch comes down to your personal preferences in typing experience and aesthetic values. If you prefer a lighter typing feel with a unique blend of bounce and a polished smoothness, the Lucky switch is likely the better choice for you. Its 43-gram bottom-out force provides a satisfying and springy sensation while typing, making it ideal for prolonged use without causing finger fatigue. The clacky sound profile further enhances the overall enjoyment, especially for those who appreciate an auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a more visually captivating experience without compromising on comfort, then the Jerrzi Seashell switch might be your ideal match. The Seashell's easy-to-press characteristics and feathery feel promote a truly effortless typing experience, perfect for long sessions of gaming, work, or school. Its aesthetic appeal, showcased through its stunning purple hue, adds a touch of personality to your setup. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what matters most to you: the nuanced tactile feedback and brightness of the Lucky or the beautifully immersive, low-impact experience offered by the Seashell.
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