HMX Perky vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the HMX Perky and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often hinges on both performance and aesthetic appeal, making the comparison between the HMX Perky and the Jerrzi Seashell particularly intriguing. The HMX Perky switches, celebrated for their softer nylon housings and condensed typing experience due to a shorter travel distance, deliver a neutral yet deeply satisfying feel with each keystroke. This makes them an excellent choice for those who prioritize efficiency and a smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell switches stand out not just for their functionality but also for their striking purple hue, embodying a blend of style and purpose. These switches are notably light and clacky, providing a delightful typing sensation that is particularly enjoyable during extended use, catering to keyboard enthusiasts who appreciate both comfort and auditory feedback. While both switches offer unique benefits, they cater to different preferences and styles of typing. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Perky and the Jerrzi Seashell switches, it's essential to consider the distinct materials used for their top housings. The Perky's top housing is crafted from nylon, a material recognized for its softer composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This softness allows nylon to absorb more sound, producing a quieter and more subdued typing experience. In contrast, the Seashell employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which is a significantly stiffer plastic. This leads to a sharper and more resonant sound profile, making typing feel crisper and more pronounced. Therefore, the key difference lies in their sound output; nylon generates a warm, rounded auditory experience while polycarbonate enhances clarity and brightness.
Examining the bottom housings, both the HMX Perky and Jerrzi Seashell utilize nylon, which unifies their acoustic properties in this regard. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile, regardless of the top housing material. This shared characteristic means that users will experience a similar bottom-out feel and sound when pressing the keys, as the nylon absorbs sound effectively and promotes that well-rounded auditory feedback. As such, even though each switch features distinct top housing materials, the common use of nylon in the bottom reduces the differentiation in typing feel and sound when the key is pressed down.
Ultimately, the combination of these different top and bottom housing materials influences the overall experience when using the switches. For example, the Perky's nylon top provides a mellow and soft sound, harmonizing with the nylon bottom's similar qualities. Conversely, the Seashell's polycarbonate top enhances the tonal sharpness, while the enduring softness of its nylon bottom still ensures that the key's bottoming-out experience remains rich and full. Therefore, despite the contrasting top housing materials, the shared nylon in the bottom housing allows for a consistent typing experience across both switches. Users looking for a specific auditory experience or tactile feedback can choose accordingly, knowing that the differing top materials will dictate the upper sound profile while the nylon base provides a familiar and comforting foundation.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Perky linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Perky switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, making it well-suited for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, which is ideal for long hours of use at work or during gaming sessions. In contrast, the Seashell switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, catering to those who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing. However, the bottom out force for the Seashell switch is not specified, leaving its total resistance when fully pressed unknown. The Perky’s bottom out force is 50 grams, providing a clear metric for users looking for a definitive feel when bottoming out. Thus, while the Perky is the lighter option with a known bottom out force, the Seashell may appeal to those who prefer a heavier actuation despite lacking complete specifications on its bottoming out characteristic.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Perky linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, users will experience the same amount of key movement, resulting in a consistent tactile feedback. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of keystroke feel and performance, making them comparable choices for individuals who prioritize a uniform typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Perky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Perky for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Perky switch is characterized by a softer and more subdued acoustic profile, making it ideal for quieter environments where a pronounced clicking noise might be disruptive. In contrast, the Jerrzi Seashell switch is defined by its clacky and high-pitched tones, producing a bright and percussive sound that many users find satisfying and engaging. This sharp auditory feedback can enhance the typing experience, providing a delightful and lively sound that can be particularly appealing during extended usage. Overall, the Seashell switch will contribute to a more pronounced auditory experience compared to the softer ambiance created by the Perky switches.
In terms of feel, the Perky switch offers a neutral and deeply satisfying typing experience, credited to its soft nylon housing. The shorter travel distance of these switches results in a more condensed and responsive experience that many typists appreciate. On the other hand, the Seashell switch excels with its feathery touch, requiring minimal force to activate, which significantly reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Its polished nature results in a smooth feel, further enhancing comfort. Users of the Seashell switches benefit from an effortless typing experience, thanks to their gentle resistance, making them a good choice for those who type for extended periods.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Perky and Jerrzi Seashell switches provide unique auditory and tactile experiences, they cater to different preferences. The Perky switch stands out for a more subtle and refined sound, combined with a neutral and satisfying feel, making it suitable for users who value a quieter, efficient typing experience. In contrast, the Seashell switch offers a lively and bright auditory feedback, along with a lighter, more comfortable typing feel perfect for extended usage. Depending on one's preference for sound and tactile feedback, either switch can provide an enjoyable typing experience, but one may be more suited to specific environments or uses.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Perky linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a softer and deeply satisfying typing experience with a light bottom-out force of 50 grams, the Perky switch might be your ideal pick. Its shorter travel distance allows for a more condensed typing experience, making it suitable for those who enjoy rapid input, such as gamers or fast typists. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a more aesthetically pleasing option that delivers a clacky sound profile and a feathery feel, the Jerrzi Seashell switch would be a great choice. Its light actuation and delightful sound make it particularly enjoyable for long typing sessions, whether for work, school, or just leisure. The Seashell's vibrant purple hue only enhances its allure, making it not just functional but visually appealing as well. Ultimately, consider your typing style, the aesthetic you prefer, and the sound experience you desire when selecting between these two exciting switch options.
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