Outemu Black vs. Jerrzi Seashell

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and the Jerrzi Seashell stand out for their unique characteristics, both embodying the linear switch design but appealing to different user preferences. The Outemu Black is a no-frills option, focusing on a straightforward typing experience without any additional flair. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell combines aesthetics with functionality, featuring a striking purple hue while also delivering a light and clacky feel that enhances the typing experience. Both switches provide a comfortable typing environment, making them suitable for extended use, but the Seashell's playful clackiness and polished design may attract those who appreciate both form and function. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Black Linear

Jerrzi Seashell Linear

$3.10 per 10

$2.79

$2.30 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Jerrzi Seashell, we find notable similarities in their top housing, as both switches utilize polycarbonate. This material is praised for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, largely due to its stiffness. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances its compatibility with RGB lighting, providing an aesthetically pleasing illumination effect. Consequently, both switches will deliver a similar auditory experience when typing, characterized by clarity and resonance. Moreover, the shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing means that users can expect a consistent performance regarding sound and light diffusion.

In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches use nylon, which introduces a distinct auditory quality to the overall typing experience. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to its polycarbonate counterpart. This means that while both the Outemu Black and Jerrzi Seashell will produce clear sounds during key releases due to their polycarbonate tops, the bottoming-out sound and feel will lean towards a duller and rounder tone. Thus, the nylon bottom housing will mediate the feel of each switch, resulting in a richer acoustic experience when the keys are pressed down.

Overall, the combined materials result in a unique sound signature for each switch. With polycarbonate on the top and nylon on the bottom, both the Outemu Black and Jerrzi Seashell are engineered to balance crispness and depth effectively. As a result, users can expect not only an attractive RGB lighting capability but also a sound quality that balances the sharpness from the top housing with the richness from the bottom housing. This interplay ensures that while the base properties of each switch may yield similar results in some respects, the nuanced effects of the differing materials will shape the unique character of each typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Outemu Black has a significant actuation force of 65 grams alongside a bottom out force of 82 grams, making it a heavier option ideal for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which caters to those who enjoy a softer touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the Seashell is unknown, preventing a complete comparison. This means that while the Outemu Black provides a more pronounced tactile feedback and heavier overall feel, the Seashell offers a lighter actuation, which might lead to less strain during extended use. In summary, if you're looking for a switch that requires more force and offers a robust typing experience, the Outemu Black is the way to go; meanwhile, the Seashell may be preferred by those who value a lighter touch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Outemu Black features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional standard and provides a deeper feel when pressing keys. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell offers a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, appealing to those who favor the quicker responsiveness often desired by gamers. While the shorter travel distance of the Seashell can enhance reaction times, some users may find it feels too abrupt compared to the more substantial 4 mm travel of the Black switch. Ultimately, if a user prefers a bouncier keystroke with a hearty depth, the Outemu Black is the better choice, while the Jerrzi Seashell is suited for those who prioritize speed and rapid response.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Black switch does not have a specific auditory profile highlighted, leaving its acoustic qualities somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell switch is characterized by a distinctly clacky sound, producing sharp and snappy auditory feedback with each keystroke. This high-pitched sound profile is crisp and bright, providing an engaging typing experience that many users find satisfying. It's worth noting that the overall sound can vary based on the keyboard build and keycap choice, but the Seashell's inherent clacky nature gives it a clear advantage in delivering a lively audio response.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Black switch lacks detailed descriptions, leaving its tactile qualities unclear. However, the Seashell switch offers a notably feathery touch, requiring minimal force to actuate. This results in a gentle and responsive typing experience that effectively reduces finger fatigue, making it ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. The polished finish of the Seashell promotes smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience with its low resistance and refined actuation. Users can expect effortless key presses that contribute to comfort and engagement during extended use.

In conclusion, comparing the Outemu Black and Jerrzi Seashell switches reveals a clear divergence in both sound and feel. While the Outemu Black's qualities remain unspecified, the Seashell switch stands out with its clacky sound and light, polished feel. If you're opting for a more tactile and engaging typing experience, the Seashell’s features make it a strong contender. However, if you prefer to explore the Outemu Black, you should expect a more neutral sound experience and will need to evaluate how its feel matches your typing preferences independently.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, consider your typing preferences and intended use. If you prefer a switch that offers a heavier feel and a more reliable and deliberate typing experience, then the Outemu Black, with its substantial bottom-out force of 82 grams, would be the ideal choice. This switch is well-suited for professional environments or for users who like to feel a strong resistance against their key presses, which can enhance typing accuracy and provide a satisfying tactile experience. Conversely, if you are drawn to a lighter and more enjoyable typing experience, the Jerrzi Seashell switch would be more fitting for you. With its feathery and easy-to-press characteristics, along with a delightful clacky sound profile, it is excellent for long typing sessions, gaming, or casual use where comfort and reduced fatigue are paramount. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you value a heavier, sturdier feel in your keystrokes or a light, responsive switch that brings a whimsical touch to your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Black Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Jerrzi Seashell Linear

$2.79

$2.30 per 10

Learn more