Jerrzi Seashell vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Seashell and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Seashell and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring stand out as distinctive choices with their unique characteristics. The Jerrzi Seashell, a linear switch, is praised for its stunning purple hue and light, clacky feel, providing an enjoyable typing experience that is both comfortable and delightful for long sessions. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch, offers a medium level of tactility with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, making it approachable for those seeking a tactile typing experience. While the Seashell switch is known for its aesthetic beauty and easy-to-press nature, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is appreciated for its bouncy tactility and thocky sound profile. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
One key difference between the Jerrzi Seashell and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is the material used for their bottom housing. The Seashell features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound overall.
On the other hand, when it comes to the top housing material, both the Seashell and the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring feature polycarbonate. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, polycarbonate is translucent, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting for aesthetic purposes. As a result, both switches will likely have similar sound profiles and responses due to the shared top housing material.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While the Seashell's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Conversely, both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. Ultimately, the combination of materials in the housing of a switch impacts both the typing feel and the sound produced, offering unique experiences for users based on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that the Seashell requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Shadow's 48 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Shadow has a medium-light force of 55 grams while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Seashell may offer a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Shadow provides a slightly more substantial typing feel due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier key press feel.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Seashell the shorter option and the Shadow the longer option. In terms of key feel, the Seashell will provide a quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers for faster reaction times. On the other hand, the Shadow with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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 offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch features a deep and thocky sound that resonates with a satisfying tone. While the Seashell switch produces a sharper sound, the Shadow switch provides a more substantial and bassy auditory experience, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will lend a unique auditory flair to typing sessions, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch boasts a feathery and easy-to-press tactile feel, minimizing finger fatigue and offering a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the Seashell switch contributes to smooth key travel and reduced friction, further enhancing the typing sensation. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback that results in a lively and rebounding key press experience. The tactility of the Shadow switch is approachable and responsive, making it a versatile option for various typing preferences.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, it is evident that both switches offer distinct experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. While the Seashell switch excels in producing a light and clacky sound with a comfortable and polished feel, the Shadow switch stands out for its deep and thocky sound profile and bouncy tactile feedback. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with a light actuation force or a more substantial sound with a medium tactility, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the Seashell and Shadow switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, ensuring a delightful typing experience either way.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and clacky typing experience with a stunning aesthetic appeal, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch would be an excellent choice. These switches are light, easy to press, and offer a feathery feel that is comfortable for long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep thocky sound profile, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch would be more suitable for you. With a lower actuation force and a bouncy feel, these switches provide a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for linear vs tactile switches and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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