Cherry MX Orange vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Orange and Jerrzi Seashell stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts, each with unique characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Cherry MX Orange, reissued from the original MX switches, is lauded for its reliability and smooth actuation, making it an excellent option for typists who appreciate a consistent feel during long writing sessions. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell switches shine not only in performance but also in aesthetics, featuring a striking purple hue and a light, clacky feedback that appeals to users who enjoy both functionality and a touch of style. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, but they cater to different tastes—those seeking a straightforward, dependable switch may gravitate toward the MX Orange, while those looking for a vibrant and engaging feel might prefer the Seashell. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
The Cherry MX Orange and the Jerrzi Seashell switches showcase distinct sound characteristics primarily due to the differing materials used in their top housings. The MX Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its classic, softer plastic composition. This material contributes to a unique, deeper sound profile that differs significantly from the Seashell's polycarbonate housing. With polycarbonate being a stiffer material, the Seashell produces a sharper and crisper sound, creating contrasting auditory experiences when each switch is pressed and released. The nylon's sound-absorbing properties results in a dulled resonance, while the rigid nature of polycarbonate allows for a bright and resonant effect, emphasizing the differences in acoustic quality.
Upon examining the bottom housings, both the MX Orange and the Jerrzi Seashell utilize nylon, which leads to similar outputs in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback. Since both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, they share the same characteristic of producing a deeper and fuller sound when the key is bottomed out. The softness of nylon contributes to this experience by muffling certain frequencies and providing a subdued tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing experience. Ultimately, in this regard, both switches will yield comparable results during the actuation, allowing for a consistent feel no matter the switch used.
In terms of overall switch performance, the interaction of top and bottom housings becomes crucial to the switch's sound profile and tactile feedback. The MX Orange features a combination of nylon for the bottom and nylon for the top, creating a unified sound experience with deep, resonant qualities. On the other hand, the Seashell's polycarbonate top paired with nylon on the bottom offers an intriguing balance: while it retains the soft, muted sound during bottoming out, it contrasts it with a clearer, more vibrant top-out sound. Thus, the varied materials create a layered auditory experience that can appeal to users looking for distinct sound profiles, while the shared nylon bottom housing ensures some consistency between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation forces of the Cherry MX Orange and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switches, the Cherry MX Orange requires a force of 55 grams to actuate, while the Jerrzi Seashell has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This difference in actuation force suggests that the Seashell switch is more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In terms of bottom out force, both switches do not provide available information; therefore, we can't compare their bottom out characteristics. However, based on the known actuation forces, the Cherry MX Orange is the heavier option, which may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, users should choose the switch that aligns with their preference for weight—in opting for either the lighter Seashell or the heavier Cherry MX Orange.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, there is a distinct difference. The Cherry MX Orange has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which aligns with the traditional travel distance and is often favored for its more substantial feel. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, catering to those who prefer quicker responsiveness, which is particularly advantageous for gamers. While the Cherry MX Orange provides a deeper and more pronounced key press, the Seashell's reduced distance may appeal to users seeking a snappier and less abrupt experience. Overall, if you value a robust tactile response, the Cherry MX Orange is the better choice, while the Jerrzi Seashell offers a more rapid actuation for those looking for faster response times.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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
The sound profile of the Cherry MX Orange switch is not explicitly defined, but it is known to be smooth and can be assumed to contribute a subtle, refined auditory experience, characteristic of many linear switches. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switch offers a distinctively clacky sound, with descriptions highlighting its sharp and crisp tonal qualities. This high-pitched auditory response is particularly appealing for those who favor a more pronounced and engaging typing sound. It's worth noting that the sound experience is also influenced by factors like the keyboard’s construction and your choice of keycaps, which may lead to variable results for both switches.
When it comes to the feel of these switches, the MX Orange is again not specifically described, leaving its tactile characteristics somewhat ambiguous. However, the Seashell switch is lauded for its feathery nature, requiring minimal effort from the user and significantly reducing finger fatigue during extended use. With a light actuation force, the Seashell switch provides a seamless typing experience that is both effortless and comfortable. It is also described as polished, indicating a smooth key travel due to the materials used or potential factory lubrication, which further enhances the overall typing experience.
In summary, while the Cherry MX Orange remains somewhat undefined in its subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Jerrzi Seashell switch delivers a clearly defined auditory experience with its clacky and high-pitched nature, alongside a comfortable, feathery tactile response. This makes the Seashell an appealing choice for prolonged typing sessions, reducing fatigue effectively. For users looking for a pleasant sound and feel, the Seashell may provide a more satisfactory experience, though both switches will offer enjoyable results based on their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, your decision will largely depend on your specific preferences and needs. If you highly value typographical nostalgia and a solid reputation, the MX Orange is a fantastic option, particularly if you’re looking for a classic linear feel that can still deliver a satisfying performance. It appeals to traditionalists and offers a comfortable experience for long typing sessions, especially if you enjoy a subtle feedback without being overly noisy. On the other hand, if you're drawn to vivid aesthetics and a lighter touch, the Seashell switch is an excellent choice. Its feathery feel and clacky sound profile can provide a fun and engaging typing experience, making it ideal for casual gaming or extended writing sessions where comfort and delight are paramount. While the Seashell’s high-pitched, crisp auditory feedback may not suit everyone, its polished finish and easy-to-press nature lower the barrier for extended use, making it appealing for those who prefer a light touch. In essence, your choice should align with whether you prioritize a classic touch or a modern aesthetic and feel, ensuring that your selected switch enhances your overall typing experience.
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