Jerrzi Poseidon vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Poseidon and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two linear options that stand out are the Jerrzi Poseidon and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie. The Poseidon, while lacking a distinctive feature that sets it apart, has garnered attention for its reliable performance, making it a solid choice for those looking for a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie shines with its medium-weight design crafted from POM, offering a unique thocky sound profile and exceptional smoothness, all while being budget-friendly and high-quality. Users may gravitate toward the Poseidon for its straightforward functionality, while others may favor the Sea Salt Smoothie for its delightful auditory feedback and tactile fluidity. 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
40g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Poseidon and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, it becomes clear that both switches utilize POM (Polyoxymethylene) for their top and bottom housings. The use of POM in both switch types contributes to an exceptionally pleasing auditory experience, characterized by a deeper sound profile that is notably muted. This shared material results in a uniformity in acoustic properties, allowing users to experience similar auditory feedback when actuating both switches. The POM housing effectively dampens sound, leading to a more refined typing experience, which is appreciated by enthusiasts seeking to minimize noise.
Moreover, despite both switches having the same POM material, the interplay between top and bottom housing affects the overall feel and sound produced during operation. Since both the Poseidon and Sea Salt Smoothie are constructed with POM components, the tactile feedback when bottoming out will be consistent across both switches, providing a satisfying resistance and softness when pressed. While the similarities in material mean that users can expect a comparable bottoming-out experience, it’s worth noting that the nuances in sound profile during key release may still vary slightly due to the individual designs and tolerances of each switch model.
Ultimately, if one is choosing between the Jerrzi Poseidon and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, the decision may boil down to personal preference in key feel rather than material differences. With both switches utilizing POM for their housings, users can expect similar results in terms of sound dampening and overall auditory experience. Since the unique properties of the POM housing are shared, those familiar with one switch will likely feel at home when trying the other, enjoying that deep, muted sound characteristic that the POM material imparts, while still recognizing subtle differences in the tactile feedback and overall switch response.
Weight
The Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch exhibit contrasting actuation forces, with the Poseidon requiring a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the 48 grams needed for the Sea Salt Smoothie. This difference suggests that the Poseidon may offer a more effortless typing experience, which could be beneficial for users who type for extended periods, such as during work or long gaming sessions. However, without information on their bottom out forces, we can't directly compare how they feel when pressed all the way down. Notably, the Poseidon is the lighter option, which might appeal to those who prefer a softer touch, while the Sea Salt Smoothie, being heavier, may provide a more substantial feedback during keystrokes—preferred by users seeking a stronger push feel. Overall, if users are looking for a switch that minimizes fatigue over time, the Poseidon would be a favorable choice, while the Sea Salt Smoothie might satisfy those who appreciate a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Poseidon switch is the shorter option, appealing to gamers or users who prioritize responsiveness in their keystrokes. Conversely, the Sea Salt Smoothie, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more substantial feel that some users find preferable for typing or gaming, providing a deeper, more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for response time versus keystroke depth, with the Poseidon appealing to those who like quicker presses and the Sea Salt Smoothie catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced travel experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Poseidon has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poseidon for $3.59.
The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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 Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch lacks a distinctive characteristic, making it a neutral choice for those who may value versatility and discretion in their keyboard experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is notable for its thocky sound profile, providing a deeper auditory feedback that many typists and gamers find satisfying. This difference in sound can significantly influence the overall typing experience, particularly if you prefer a more pronounced acoustic response from your keys. However, it’s essential to recognize that the final sound output is also shaped by the keyboard build and keycap material, which can complement or modify the natural qualities of the switches.
In terms of feel, the Poseidon switch does not have a clear standout feature to highlight, which might suggest a straightforward and uncomplicated typing experience. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie is recognized for its exceptional smoothness. This quality can enhance both typing and gaming experiences by providing a satisfying and consistent keypress. If you’re someone who prioritizes the tactile feedback and fluidity of each keystroke, the Sea Salt Smoothie would likely cater more to your preferences, while the Poseidon may still provide a decent experience but without any particular standout performance.
In summary, while the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch may offer a more neutral performance in both sound and feel, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie stands out with its thocky acoustics and smooth keystrokes. If you're enamored with auditory feedback and a polished typing experience, the Sea Salt Smoothie is the clear choice. However, if you're seeking more general functionality without focusing heavily on specific auditory or tactile qualities, the Poseidon can still serve your needs adequately. Thus, the selection between these switches ultimately boils down to personal preference regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Jerrzi Poseidon linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, your decision should hinge on your preferences regarding sound and feel. If you are drawn to a unique and potentially uncharacterized experience, the Poseidon might offer something intriguing, especially if you value innovation in your typing feel. On the other hand, if you are looking for a dependable switch that excels in the tactile experience with a satisfying thocky sound profile, then the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is an excellent choice. Its medium weight and high-quality POM material ensure you get a smooth keystroke that many enthusiasts appreciate. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize experimenting with new options or prefer a proven classic that balances performance and acoustic satisfaction.
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