KTT Pine vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Pine linear switch to the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, both mechanical keyboard switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Pine is praised for its medium-heavy actuation force, buttery smooth keystrokes, and effortless typing experience, making it ideal for those seeking a smooth and low-pitched typing sensation. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switch stands out with its stunning purple hue, light and clacky feel, and easy-to-press keys, providing a more feathery and high-pitched typing experience. While both switches have their own strengths and appeal, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Pine and the Jerrzi Seashell, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, allowing for clear and resonant sound production. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the bottom housing of the Pine differs from the Seashell, as the Pine utilizes polycarbonate while the Seashell utilizes nylon. The nylon bottom housing of the Seashell produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine.
One notable difference between the two switches is the material used for the bottom housing. While the Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, the Seashell's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound quality is a result of the different properties of the two materials, with the polycarbonate being stiffer and the nylon being softer and more sound-absorbent. Despite this difference, both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile.
In terms of sound production, the housing materials of the KTT Pine and the Jerrzi Seashell have distinct impacts on the overall typing experience. The top housing material plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. With the Pine featuring polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, it provides a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout typing sessions. In contrast, the Seashell's combination of polycarbonate and nylon results in a mix of sharper top sounds and fuller bottom-out sounds. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The KTT Pine linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally sensitive in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Pine switch requires 58 grams to fully press down, providing a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Seashell switch, which does not have a specified bottom out force. This means that the Pine switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, while the Seashell switch could offer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and overall typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The KTT Pine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Pine switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Seashell switch. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deliberate key press. Both switches fall within the spectrum of traditional travel distances, with the Pine being on the longer end and the Seashell being more towards the shallow end. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on whether you prioritize faster response times or a more deliberate key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched tone, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and snappy experience when typing. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the Pine leaning towards a more bass-heavy tone and the Seashell delivering a crisper and brighter sound. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with a seamless and uniform sensation. Conversely, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is termed feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a comfortable and enjoyable feel while typing. The Pine focuses on a silky and easy keystroke, while the Seashell prioritizes a light and effortless typing experience.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the KTT Pine linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offer distinct typing experiences tailored to different preferences. The Pine stands out with its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, coupled with a buttery and creamy typing feel. In contrast, the Seashell excels in producing a clacky and high-pitched sound, complemented by a feathery and easy-to-press sensation while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound depth, key feel, and overall typing comfort. Both switches promise an enjoyable typing experience, catering to a variety of keyboard enthusiasts seeking a high-quality mechanical switch for their setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Pine linear switch or the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams and enjoy a buttery, creamy typing experience with a bassy, low-pitched sound profile, then the Pine switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom-out force and enjoy a feathery, easy-to-press typing experience with a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, then the Seashell switch might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the overall feel and sound you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing needs.
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