Cherry MX Brown vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown and the Jerrzi Seashell mechanical keyboard switches, the key difference lies in their tactile versus linear characteristics. The MX Brown is praised for its subtle tactility and subdued audio feedback, providing a light typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell offers a vibrant purple hue and a more clacky, easy-to-press typing feel. While the MX Brown is ideal for those who prefer a textured and low-pitched typing experience, the Seashell appeals to individuals seeking a feathery, high-pitched, and polished sensation. 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
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the Cherry MX Brown and Jerrzi Seashell differ in terms of their housing materials. The Cherry MX Brown utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile because of polycarbonate's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound compared to the Cherry MX Brown. In terms of aesthetics, the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding an extra visual element to the switch.
Despite their differences, both the Cherry MX Brown and Jerrzi Seashell share the use of nylon in their bottom housing, providing a similar deeper and fuller sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing can be felt when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key, with the Cherry MX Brown's nylon top housing creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper and sharper sound produced by the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is evident that the MX Brown has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Seashell, whose bottom out force is unknown. However, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that in terms of triggering a keystroke, users will experience a similar feeling with both switches. The Cherry MX Brown is considered medium-light in terms of weight, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the weight of the Jerrzi Seashell remains unknown, making it difficult to determine if it is lighter or heavier. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference, with some preferring the more substantial typing experience offered by a heavier bottom out force, while others may opt for a lighter switch for prolonged use.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Seashell switch slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the MX Brown. The difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the typing or gaming experience for some users. Those who prefer a quicker response time may opt for the Seashell switch with its shorter travel distance, ideal for gaming where quick actions are crucial. On the other hand, users who enjoy a more deliberate key press may find the MX Brown switch with its longer travel distance more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 Cherry MX Brown switches offer a bassy and low-pitched profile, giving a deeper and richer sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switches provide a clacky and high-pitched sound, producing sharp and crisp tones when pressed. Depending on your preference for sound, the MX Brown switches may offer a more subdued and subtle typing experience compared to the more bright and percussive sound of the Seashell switches.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Brown switches are described as textured, providing a tactile feedback with noticeable friction when pressed. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switches are often referred to as feathery and easy-to-press, offering an exceptionally light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the polished finish of the Seashell switches ensures a smooth and refined typing experience, enhancing comfort and ease of use for the user. Overall, the MX Brown switches may provide a more tactile and textured feel, while the Seashell switches offer a lighter and smoother typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Brown and Jerrzi Seashell switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the MX Brown switches are known for their subtlety and textured feedback, the Seashell switches stand out with their vibrant aesthetic, smooth actuation, and polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile, key feel, and overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a more tactile and bassy typing experience or a lighter and smoother feel, both switches are sure to provide an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience for any keyboard enthusiast.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose Cherry MX Brown tactile switches or Jerrzi Seashell linear switches, it ultimately comes down to your individual preference and typing style. If you prefer a subtle tactile feedback with a medium-light typing experience and a deeper, bassy sound profile, the MX Brown switches might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are drawn to the aesthetic beauty of the Seashell switches, enjoy a light and clacky typing experience with high-pitched sound, and prefer feathery, easy-to-press switches that reduce finger fatigue, then the Seashell linear switches would be a great option for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics and an enjoyable typing experience, so consider your preferences and needs when making your decision.
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