KTT Matcha vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Matcha and the Jerrzi Seashell stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts. The Matcha is renowned for its tactile feedback, providing a comfortable and snappy typing experience with a clean bottom-out sound. In contrast, the Seashell switches boast a stunning purple hue and offer a light and clacky feel that remains enjoyable and comfortable during long typing sessions. While the Matcha is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', and 'Accented', the Seashell is described as 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Jerrzi Seashell switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency. This results in a consistent sound and feel between the Matcha and Seashell switches when it comes to their top housing material.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Matcha features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a similar sound profile as its top housing, emphasizing a sharp and crisp sound. On the other hand, the Seashell utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Matcha.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and Jerrzi Seashell switches offer a balanced combination of qualities. While both switches share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housing for a sharp and resonant sound, they differ in the sound profile created by their bottom housing materials. The Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing preserves the sharpness of its sound, while the Seashell's nylon bottom housing enhances a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound or a richer sound, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is clear that the Matcha is lighter in both aspects. The Matcha has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Seashell has an actuation force of 45 grams with an unknown bottom out force. The Matcha offers a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Seashell provides a slightly heavier actuation force, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Matcha has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Seashell, which may provide a more substantial feel when typing. In contrast, the Seashell offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to users seeking a faster response time, like gamers. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight difference may be noticeable to users depending on their preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prioritizes a longer, more tactile typing experience or a shorter, quicker response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch are described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. However, the Seashell switch is also noted to have a high-pitched sound profile, which could be preferred by those who enjoy a crisper sound. Keep in mind that the actual sound of the switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Matcha switch is characterized by being stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle, providing a tactile typing experience with a mix of responsiveness and lightness. On the other hand, the Seashell switch is described as feathery, easy-to-press, and polished, offering a light and effortless typing feel with reduced finger fatigue. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience over extended use, catering to different preferences in terms of tactility and actuation force.
In conclusion, while both the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, they both excel in providing a pleasant typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with a tactile bump like the Matcha or a lighter, smoother keystroke like the Seashell, you can count on both switches to deliver reliable performance for your keyboarding needs. Additionally, with similarities in being clacky and feathery, users can expect comparable results in certain aspects despite the differences in their subjective qualities. Ultimately, both switches stand out as excellent choices for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a blend of functionality and enjoyment in their typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, your decision should be based on your preference for tactility and sound. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light and feathery typing feel with a stunning purple aesthetic and clacky sound, the Seashell switch is the perfect option. Consider your typing preferences and environment to determine which switch suits your needs best. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience in different ways.
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