Jerrzi Seashell vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Seashell and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch are two options that stand out among enthusiasts. The Seashell switch is praised for its stunning purple hue and light, clacky feel, providing a comfortable and delightful typing experience for extended periods. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch offers a rounded tactile bump and a muted sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a softer typing experience. While the Seashell switch is easy-to-press and high-pitched, the Silent Brown switch is buttery and polished. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences and typing 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Jerrzi Seashell and the TTC Silent Brown feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for a visually appealing experience. On the other hand, the Seashell employs a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The Silent Brown also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, showcasing similar sound characteristics to the Seashell in this aspect.
In terms of the housing materials used in both switches, the polycarbonate top housing in the Seashell and the Silent Brown contribute to a similar sound profile with a sharper and crisper tone. However, the difference lies in their nylon bottom housing, where the Seashell offers a deeper and fuller sound while the Silent Brown provides a rounder and duller tone. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more when bottoming out keys, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer a unique sound experience based on their housing material combination.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, the Seashell and the Silent Brown both leverage polycarbonate top housing to create a clear and resonant sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, which is amplified when using RGB lighting due to its translucency. While the nylon bottom housing in each switch provides a distinct sound characteristic, the top housing's influence on sound production when typing or releasing keys remains consistent between the two switches. Ultimately, users can expect similar sound experiences with slight variations in depth and tone based on the housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
In comparing the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, both have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they will offer a similar typing experience in terms of initial keypress resistance. However, where they differ is in their bottom out force. The Seashell has an unknown bottom out force, while the Silent Brown has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. This means that the Silent Brown will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel compared to the Seashell. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Seashell may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more forceful keystroke may lean towards the heavier bottom out force of the Silent Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Silent Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Seashell. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular today, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly more pronounced key press sensation with the Silent Brown switch compared to the Seashell. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key press depth 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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $5.00.
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 known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, producing a sharp and crisp sound that can be described as bright and percussive. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular switch. Depending on personal preference, the Seashell switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a sharper and more pronounced sound, while the Silent Brown switch may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, providing a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and strain during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is described as buttery and mild, offering a smooth and uniform typing sensation that is approachable to most users. Similar to the Seashell switch, the Silent Brown switch also features a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Seashell switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound with a feathery and easy-to-press feel, the Silent Brown switch provides a muted sound profile and a buttery, mild typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a stunning purple hue, light and clacky feel, and a high-pitched, crisp sound profile, the Seashell switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium resistance, a satisfying rounded tactile bump, and a muted sound profile, the Silent Brown switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, sound preference, and the overall feel you desire in your mechanical keyboard. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a keyboard switch.
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