Gateron Mountain Top vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Mountain Top and the Jerrzi Seashell mechanical keyboard switches, two linear switches with their unique characteristics, distinct advantages come to light. The Gateron Mountain Top is tailored for office settings, offering a quiet yet subtly tactile typing experience that is ideal for professional environments. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell stands out with its striking purple hue and a blend of light and clacky feel, making it a visually appealing and enjoyable option for keyboard enthusiasts. While the Mountain Top emphasizes discretion and comfort, the Seashell focuses on both aesthetics and 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 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-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Mountain Top and the Jerrzi Seashell both utilize nylon as their bottom housing material. This classic switch housing material provides a deep and full sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. However, while both switches have the same bottom housing material, the top housing materials differ. The Mountain Top features a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile, while the Seashell utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. These contrasting top housing materials provide a distinct auditory experience for users of each switch.
In terms of aesthetics, the Jerrzi Seashell stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, allowing for clear housing that showcases RGB lighting. This adds a visual element to the switch that the Gateron Mountain Top may not offer with its opaque nylon top housing. Additionally, the stiffness of the polycarbonate material in the Seashell's top housing results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, contrasting with the duller and rounder sound produced by the Mountain Top's nylon top housing. Despite both switches using nylon for their bottom housing, the different top housing materials significantly impact the overall sound and visual experience of each switch.
While both the Gateron Mountain Top and the Jerrzi Seashell share the same bottom housing material of nylon, their distinct top housing materials provide unique characteristics to each switch. The split in housing materials allows for a balance in sound profile, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This split also showcases the versatility of housing materials in influencing the overall typing experience, as users can choose between the duller, fuller sound of nylon in the Mountain Top or the crisper, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate in the Seashell.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, there are some distinct differences. The Gateron Mountain Top has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Jerrzi Seashell's 45 grams, making the Mountain Top easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Mountain Top requires 50 grams to fully press a key while the Seashell force is unknown. This means the Seashell may offer a smoother typing experience without the need for as much force to press down completely. Ultimately, those who prefer a light touch for extended typing sessions may lean towards the Mountain Top, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Seashell. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar travel distance from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience with their identical travel distances. So, whether you choose the Mountain Top or the Seashell, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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, the Gateron Mountain Top switch offers a neutral typing experience that is moderate in both actuation force requirement and sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp and percussive, providing a more lively auditory experience. The choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for sound, with the Mountain Top being a more versatile option and the Seashell offering a more distinct and vibrant typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch provides a bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle typing experience. This combination of characteristics offers a responsive yet comfortable typing feel that is suitable for extended use. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switch delivers a feathery, easy-to-press, and polished typing experience, giving users a lightweight and smooth keypress with reduced friction. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of typing, with the Seashell switch emphasizing a lighter touch and smoother feel compared to the Mountain Top.
Overall, the Gateron Mountain Top and Jerrzi Seashell switches offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Mountain Top provides a neutral sound and a balanced typing feel, the Seashell offers a clacky sound and a polished, feathery touch. Choosing between the two switches would depend on whether you prioritize a more versatile, subdued typing experience or a more vibrant, distinctive typing feel. However, both switches promise an enjoyable and comfortable typing experience for any keyboard enthusiast.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, consider the environment and experience you prioritize. If you value a quiet and light typing experience tailored for office settings, the Mountain Top switch is the ideal choice. Its subdued sound profile and light actuation force provide a professional yet comfortable typing feel. On the other hand, if you seek a visually appealing and enjoyable typing experience with a clacky sound profile, opt for the Seashell switch. Its purple hue and light actuation force make typing a delightful experience, perfect for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a balance of aesthetics and functionality. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preferences and the setting in which you plan to use them.
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