Durock Medium Tactile vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Jerrzi Seashell mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Medium Tactile is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience with a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Seashell switches stand out with their stunning purple hue and light, clacky feel, making typing sessions comfortable and enjoyable. While the Medium Tactile is known for its accented and stepped feel, the Seashell is described as feathery and high-pitched. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Jerrzi Seashell utilize a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is useful for incorporating RGB lighting into the switches. This similarity in top housing material ensures that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Medium Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. On the other hand, the Seashell also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar experience to the Medium Tactile in terms of sound profile and feel when typing. This shared bottom housing material ensures consistency in the overall typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, while the Durock Medium Tactile and the Jerrzi Seashell may differ in their bottom housing material, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with distinct sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharp and resonant sound, while the nylon bottom housing enhances the depth and fullness of the typing experience. Whether using the Medium Tactile or the Seashell, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics. The Durock Medium Tactile has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell has an actuation force of 45 grams, but its bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force of a switch is crucial as it determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press the key all the way down. Those who prefer lighter switches may lean towards the Jerrzi Seashell due to its lighter actuation force, perfect for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Durock Medium Tactile, with its heavier bottom out force, provides a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is slightly longer than the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Medium Tactile offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Seashell. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the Seashell with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the Medium Tactile more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature, offering a unique auditory experience for the user. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. Both switches provide an enjoyable typing experience, although the Medium Tactile may offer a more distinct sound compared to the Seashell. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycap material.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is praised for its balanced tactility, falling under the category of accented, stepped, mild, and polished. These qualities indicate that the switch provides a noticeable but not overwhelming tactile feedback, with a smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Seashell switch is also labeled as polished, ensuring a sleek and low-friction typing experience for the user. While both switches provide a comfortable typing feel, the Medium Tactile may offer a more nuanced tactile feedback compared to the Seashell's emphasis on lightness and ease of use.
Overall, the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a pronounced tactile experience with a jelly-like sound or a light and clacky switch with a feathery feel, both options provide a delightful typing experience for enthusiasts. Depending on your personal preference for sound and tactility, you can achieve satisfying results with either the Medium Tactile or the Seashell switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Jerrzi Seashell switches, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced yet balanced tactility, the Durock Medium Tactile would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a stunning purple aesthetic, a light and clacky typing experience, and easy-to-press switches with an unknown bottom out force, then the Jerrzi Seashell switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of feel, sound, and aesthetics. Make sure to try both switches if possible to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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