Cherry Nixie vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie and Jerrzi Seashell may catch your attention. The Cherry Nixie is a linear switch that is renowned for its substantial weight and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation thanks to Cherry's MX2A update. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell, another linear switch, stands out with its mesmerizing purple hue and light, clacky typing feel. It offers a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience that is perfect for long sessions. While the Nixie is known for its 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched' characteristics, the Seashell boasts being 'Clacky', 'Feathery', 'Easy-to-press', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', and 'Easy-to-press'. Both switches have their unique strengths and appeal, but diving deeper into their specific features will ultimately help you make the best decision for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
63.5g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry Nixie and Jerrzi Seashell both use nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the Nixie's top housing is made of nylon, while the Seashell's top housing is polycarbonate. The polycarbonate top housing of the Seashell produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Nixie's nylon top housing. This difference in material affects the overall typing experience and the sound produced by each switch.
The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Jerrzi Seashell not only affects the sound profile but also has aesthetic benefits. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic compared to nylon, which results in a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to show through, making it especially useful for switches with lighting effects. On the other hand, the Nixie's nylon top housing may not provide the same level of clarity or brightness in terms of sound and lighting effects. Despite both switches using nylon for their bottom housing, the difference in top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound and appearance.
While both the Cherry Nixie and Jerrzi Seashell utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the choice of material for the top housing sets them apart. The Nixie's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in material affects how the sound is perceived when typing on each switch. Additionally, the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element that the Nixie's nylon top housing may not provide. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in each switch impacts the overall typing experience and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Nixie has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the Seashell's lighter 45 grams, making the Seashell the lighter option between the two. Additionally, the Nixie has a bottom out force of 80 grams, while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. The Nixie provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Seashell offers a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches are relatively close in terms of travel distance, with the Nixie being slightly longer than the Seashell. The Nixie's 4 mm travel distance offers a more traditional typing experience, while the Seashell's 3.4 mm travel distance provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the Seashell for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may opt for the Nixie. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie 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 Nixie linear switch offers a deep, rich, and satisfying "thocky" sound when pressed, accompanied by a low-pitched tone that resonates well with users who prefer a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch produces a sharp and snappy "clacky" sound when activated, with a high-pitched tone that delivers a crisp and percussive effect. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, as the Nixie provides a more subdued and grounded auditory experience, while the Seashell offers a vibrant and lively sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is noted for its textured typing experience, providing users with a tactile sensation that adds a sense of friction during key presses. Conversely, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offers a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force for activation and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Seashell switch features a polished finish that contributes to smoother key travel and a sleek overall typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a more tactile and textured feel or a light and effortless keystroke, both switches cater to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch each bring distinct qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Nixie provides a classic and substantial typing experience with a thocky sound and textured feel, the Seashell offers a visually striking purple hue along with a clacky sound profile and a feather-light typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics, ensuring that users can find the perfect fit for their mechanical keyboard setup based on their unique typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier switch with a textured typing experience and a deeper, low-pitched sound, the Cherry Nixie may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a feathery feel, easy-to-press actuation, and a clacky, high-pitched sound, the Jerrzi Seashell switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of feel, sound, and aesthetic appeal. So, take your time to try out both switches and choose the one that best fits your needs and typing habits.
Mentioned in this article
