Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Jerrzi Seashell mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches provide unique features for users to consider. The Gateron Lunar Probe stands out for its dual rail mechanism that ensures stable and consistent keypresses, offering a smooth, pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell impresses users with its stunning purple hue and a light, clacky feel that remains comfortable and delightful during extended typing sessions. While the Lunar Probe excels in stability and smoothness, the Seashell focuses on aesthetics and a satisfying typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Lunar Probe and the Jerrzi Seashell both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate adds a visually appealing touch to the switches, enhancing the overall look of the keyboard. This common material choice in the top housing of both switches ensures a consistent sound profile and visual appeal for users.
On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Jerrzi Seashell also incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out keys. This shared bottom housing material between the two switches ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, providing users with a consistent and satisfying typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Jerrzi Seashell plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. Despite the slight differences in housing materials between the two switches, the overall goal remains the same - to provide users with a high-quality typing experience with unique sound profiles and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, both have an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Lunar Probe has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Seashell does not provide information on its bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Lunar Probe is on the lighter side with its bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown, but it may cater to individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Overall, both switches offer a similar actuation force, but the Lunar Probe is lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Seashell, which may result in a slightly different typing experience for users.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Seashell has the shorter travel distance compared to the Lunar Probe. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Lunar Probe with its longer travel distance more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of how much key travel depth you prefer.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is best described as having a subtle sound signature, which is likely quiet and smooth due to the pre-lubed linear sensation they provide. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is known for being clacky and high-pitched, producing sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Lunar Probe having a more subdued and mellow sound compared to the Seashell's more vibrant and crisp sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch does not have specific descriptors provided, but given its smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, it is likely to offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is described as feathery, easy-to-press, and polished. This indicates that the Seashell switch is exceptionally light to press, requires minimal force to activate, and provides a smooth and refined typing experience. Overall, both switches seem to offer a comfortable typing feel, with the Seashell being more focused on lightness and ease of use.
In conclusion, the Gateron Lunar Probe and Jerrzi Seashell linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lunar Probe provides a subtle sound signature and potentially a smooth typing experience, the Seashell switch stands out with its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, as well as a feathery and easy-to-press feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different user needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether you prefer a quieter, smoother typing experience with the Lunar Probe, or a more vibrant and snappy typing experience with the Seashell switch.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch or the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, you should take into account your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a light bottom out force of 50 grams and value stable and consistent keypresses with a smooth linear sensation, the Lunar Probe switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are drawn to the stunning purple hue of the Seashell switch and enjoy a clacky and high-pitched sound when typing, along with a feathery and easy-to-press feel for reduced finger fatigue during long typing sessions, then the Seashell switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and aesthetics.
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