Jerrzi Seashell vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Seashell and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Jerrzi Seashell and the KTT Semi Mute, both of which are linear switches. The Seashell switch stands out for its stunning purple hue and light, clacky feel, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts who enjoy a comfortable and delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch, despite its name, offers completely silent operation and is ideal for those who prioritize a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions. With advanced dampening technology and a buttery, mild feel, the Semi Mute switch provides a gratifying typing experience. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jerrzi Seashell and the KTT Semi Mute both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting effects. However, the Seashell features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials affects the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
Despite their differences in bottom housing materials, both the Seashell and Semi Mute switches showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate in the top housing. The clear and stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the sound profile and resonance of the switches, making them ideal for users looking for a sharp and crisp typing experience. While the Seashell's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper sound profile, the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing complements its top housing, resulting in a balanced typing experience with a mix of clarity and depth in sound.
In terms of usability, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a critical role in the overall typing experience. The split between top and bottom housing materials can impact the sound produced when pressing down on a key or releasing it. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Understanding the qualities each housing material brings allows users to choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound profile, key feel, and overall typing comfort.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, it is evident that the Seashell is lighter in both aspects. The Seashell has an actuation force of 45 grams, slightly heavier than the Semi Mute's 43 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Seashell is unknown, while the Semi Mute has a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it heavier in this regard. The lighter actuation force of the Seashell may appeal to those who prefer a softer typing experience for prolonged use, while the heavier bottom out force of the Semi Mute can provide a more substantial and satisfying typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the KTT Semi Mute linear switch. The Seashell offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch provides a deeper key press due to its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding responsiveness and key depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is best known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is known for its muted and neutral sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience. These differences in sound make the Seashell more vibrant and percussive, while the Semi Mute provides a more subtle and understated typing sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for noise levels during typing sessions.
When considering the feel of the switches, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is praised for its feathery and easy-to-press qualities, offering a light and effortless typing experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the Seashell provides a smooth and refined keystroke sensation. In contrast, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as buttery and mild, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience with a gentle touch. The differences in feel between the two switches highlight the Seashell's comfortable and low-impact typing feel versus the Semi Mute's uniform and approachable typing sensation.
Overall, the Jerrzi Seashell and KTT Semi Mute linear switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Seashell excels in providing a clacky and light typing experience, while the Semi Mute offers a muted and buttery feel. Depending on whether the user prioritizes a vibrant sound profile or a quiet typing experience, they can choose between the Seashell or Semi Mute switches to achieve their desired typing feel. However, both switches are designed to offer a gratifying typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring that users will get similar enjoyable results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, consider your preferences and needs for your typing experience. If you value a stunning aesthetic combined with a light and clacky typing feel, the Seashell switch would be a great choice for you, especially if you enjoy a high-pitched and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and desire a linear actuation with advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute switch would be the ideal pick for you, especially if you prefer a muted and neutral sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what features and characteristics suit your typing style and environment best.
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