Jerrzi Seashell vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Seashell and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Seashell switch is renowned for its stunning purple hue and its light, clacky feel, providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, perfect for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its innovative design, offering a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. It boasts a silky smooth feel without being overly polished.
Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preferences and typing needs. The Seashell switch caters to those who enjoy a feathery, high-pitched typing experience, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch is ideal for individuals seeking a subdued, buttery smooth feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jerrzi Seashell and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear are quite similar, as both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness and resonant properties. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Seashell utilizes a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature and sound absorption capabilities.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the contrasting nylon bottom housings of the Seashell and the Semi-Silent Linear allow for distinct typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Seashell contributes to a duller and rounder sound upon typing, offering a different tactile sensation compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's nylon bottom housing. This showcases how the choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound profile of a switch.
In summary, the Jerrzi Seashell and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear both benefit from the acoustical properties of polycarbonate in their top housings, producing a clear and resonant sound profile. However, the use of nylon in the Seashell's bottom housing creates a unique sound experience that differs from the Semi-Silent Linear. The split between the bottom and top housing materials allows for a balance of qualities in each switch, influencing both the sound and feel of typing on these mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, whose actuation force is unknown. This means that the Seashell switch would provide a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, whereas the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. This heavier bottom out force would give a more substantial typing feel, suitable for those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on the actuation and bottom out forces, so users can choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel. Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, users can expect similar results in terms of performance and comfort.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch with a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Seashell switch is ideal for those who prefer a quicker response time, such as gamers who need to act fast in their games. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a more robust and deep press when typing or gaming. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their varying travel distances, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference in terms of what feels best for the user.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 Seashell linear switch is well-known for its sharp and clacky sound that is high-pitched, giving a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound profile, with a whisper-quiet topping-out noise that transitions into a clacky bottom-out sound. The Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a quieter typing experience compared to the Seashell, making it a more suitable option for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
In terms of feel, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, providing a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. It also offers a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is noted for its mild and snappy feel, offering a gentle typing experience with a more responsive touch. Additionally, it provides a buttery and polished keystroke feel for a seamless and fluid typing sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Seashell and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Seashell switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a feathery and easy-to-press feel, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound with a mild and snappy touch. Depending on whether you prefer a louder and lighter typing experience or a quieter and more responsive feel, both switches have their own strengths to consider. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that combines aesthetic beauty with a light and clacky typing experience, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a semi-silent switch with a medium bottom-out force that offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, then the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is the perfect option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a stunning purple hue and feathery feel with the Seashell, or a silky smooth typing experience with a subdued sound profile with the Semi-Silent Linear. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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