KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear switches can greatly impact the typing experience. The KTT Phalaenopsis, known for its beautiful translucent design and tactile feedback, offers a light actuation force of 37g for effortless typing and minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell boasts a stunning purple hue and a smooth linear feel that is both light and clacky, providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. While the Phalaenopsis focuses on tactile feedback and a satisfying bump with each keystroke, the Seashell emphasizes a smooth and consistent typing experience. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Jerrzi Seashell feature polycarbonate top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the housing materials differ in their bottom housings. The Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Seashell features a nylon bottom housing. Typing on nylon-bottomed switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
The use of polycarbonate in both the top housings of the KTT Phalaenopsis and Jerrzi Seashell allows for a consistent sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile across both switches. This uniformity in top housing material ensures that users will experience a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality between the two switches. In contrast, the difference in bottom housing materials between the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing and the Seashell's nylon bottom housing will impact the typing experience through the bottom-out sound and feel. The qualities of the bottom housing material play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of pressing down on the switches.
While both the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Jerrzi Seashell feature polycarbonate top housings for a similar sound profile, their differing bottom housing materials provide distinct typing experiences. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the softer nylon material in the Seashell's bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split between top and bottom housing materials emphasizes the impact of each on the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it is evident that the Phalaenopsis is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Phalaenopsis has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is relatively light compared to the Seashell's 45 grams actuation force (with an unknown bottom out force). This difference in weight can significantly impact typing experience, as some may prefer the lighter touch of the Phalaenopsis for extended typing sessions, while others may opt for the slightly heavier feel of the Seashell for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Phalaenopsis offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press sensation. On the other hand, the Seashell provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which might be favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Phalaenopsis being on the longer side and the Seashell being on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis 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 Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky experience, providing a deep and rich sound profile with each key press. On the other hand, the Seashell switch delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and crisp tone during typing. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the deeper sound of the Phalaenopsis or the brighter sound of the Seashell to enhance their typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as having a stepped feel, providing a tactile experience with two stages of feedback. On the contrary, the Seashell switch is noted for feeling feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal exertion and offering a smooth typing experience. Whether users prefer a more defined tactile feel with the Phalaenopsis or a light and effortless typing experience with the Seashell, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Considering all available information, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Phalaenopsis provides a deep and rich sound with a stepped tactile feel, the Seashell offers a bright and crisp sound with a feathery and easy-to-press sensation. Ultimately, both switches ensure a delightful typing experience with their distinct characteristics, allowing users to customize their keyboard to suit their individual typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you value a light actuation force and a discernible tactile bump for a satisfying typing experience, the Phalaenopsis switch with its 50g bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and clacky switch that offers a comfortable typing feel for extended sessions, the Seashell switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you prioritize factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your personal typing style and preferences for a truly enjoyable keyboarding experience.
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