Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up are the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Jerrzi Seashell. The Cherry MX Silent Red is a linear switch that offers a slightly heftier feel compared to the classic MX Red, but its defining feature is its silent operation. This makes it an excellent choice for those in noise-sensitive environments who still want a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell, also a linear switch, stands out with its stunning purple hue and a light, clacky feel. It provides a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience that can be delightful even during long sessions. Both switches have their unique characteristics and cater to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Jerrzi Seashell, one can see a clear difference in sound profiles. The MX Silent Red's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic, absorbing more sound and resulting in a deeper tone. In contrast, the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, with its stiffer plastic creating a more resonant profile. This difference in sound quality can be attributed to the materials used in each housing, showcasing how the choice of material can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the MX Silent Red and the Jerrzi Seashell feature nylon material. This classic housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder tone. Despite the similarity in material, the bottom housing still plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed. This shared trait in housing material highlights the importance of both the top and bottom housing in creating a satisfying typing experience.
It is worth noting that the difference in housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch can lead to varying sound profiles during typing. The qualities of each housing material will impact the sound and feel differently, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when a key is released. Understanding the role of each housing material in a switch can help users make informed choices based on their preferences for sound and feel, highlighting the nuanced differences between the Cherry MX Silent Red's nylon housing and the Jerrzi Seashell's polycarbonate housing.
Weight
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown, so it is unclear which one would require more pressure to fully press down. When considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of these switches for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may lean towards a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar actuation force, allowing users to achieve comparable results in terms of typing performance.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is clear that the MX Silent Red has a longer travel distance at 3.7 mm compared to the Seashell's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in the MX Silent Red feeling slightly more responsive than the Seashell. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference - whether you prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Seashell for quicker key presses, or the slightly longer travel distance of the MX Silent Red for a more substantial key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red switch offers a muted and low-pitched experience, providing a quieter typing environment compared to traditional mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, giving a crisp and bright typing feedback. Depending on personal preference, users may lean towards the quieter and deeper sound of the MX Silent Red or the sharp and percussive sound of the Seashell.
Moving on to the feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, which may provide a bit of feedback during typing. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell switch offers a feathery and easy-to-press sensation, requiring minimal force for key activation. The Seashell switch aims to reduce finger fatigue and enhance typing comfort over extended periods, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a light and effortless typing experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the Seashell switch adds to the smoothness of key travel, further enhancing the typing feel.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Silent Red and Jerrzi Seashell switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different user preferences. The MX Silent Red provides a quieter and slightly textured typing experience, while the Seashell switch delivers a clacky and feathery feel with an emphasis on light actuation and smooth key travel. Whether opting for the silent and low-pitched sound of the MX Silent Red or the bright and high-pitched sound of the Seashell, users can expect satisfying typing experiences with both switches. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound profile, tactile feedback, and typing comfort.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, consider your priorities in sound and feel. If you value a quieter typing experience in noise-sensitive environments, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch with its muted and thocky sound profile may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a visually stunning switch with a clacky and high-pitched sound, along with a feathery and easy-to-press feel for extended typing sessions, the Jerrzi Seashell switch could be your ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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