Jerrzi Seashell vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Seashell and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Jerrzi Seashell and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g each offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Seashell switch stands out with its stunning purple hue and combines aesthetic beauty with functionality. Known for its light and clacky typing experience, it is designed to keep enthusiasts engaged during long sessions with its feathery ease of actuation and polished feel. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g emphasizes a serene and quiet typing experience, achieving this with its ultra-light bottom-out force of just 43g, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize tranquility over tactile feedback. While the Seashell may appeal to users who enjoy a lively and expressive typing sound, the Silent Sakura caters to those who prefer an unobtrusive and soft keystroke. Ultimately, both switches have compelling features, but 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Jerrzi Seashell and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches showcase contrasting choices in their top housing materials, each influencing the auditory experience they provide. The Jerrzi Seashell features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for delivering a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffness in the polycarbonate material allows for a clearer and more resonant acoustic quality. In contrast, the Silent Sakura opts for a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. The soft nature of nylon absorbs sound, creating a more muted auditory feedback, therefore showcasing how material choice significantly influences the sound profile of each switch during use.
When we look at the bottom housing, the Jerrzi Seashell employs nylon material while the HMX Silent Sakura opts for polycarbonate. Here, we see a reversal of the characteristics observed in the top housing. The nylon in the Seashell provides a deeper and rounder bottom-out sound due to its sound-absorbing qualities, resulting in a muted tactile feedback when keys are pressed. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom of the Silent Sakura contributes to a crisper and clearer bottom-out sound, enhancing the overall acoustic experience of the switch. This duality illustrates a split in character traits between the two switches, as the housing materials bring different qualities to the tactile sensation and sound produced during key presses.
Despite the differences in material choices between the two switches, there is a potential for achieving similar overall results due to the combining influences of the top and bottom housings. The Seashell's polycarbonate top, providing a sharper sound, could work effectively with the depth from the nylon bottom, while the Silent Sakura’s nylon top could simultaneously harmonize with the crispness from its polycarbonate bottom. Ultimately, the musicality and tactile feedback of both switches are shaped by the interplay between these materials, allowing each to create a unique typing and auditory experience while offering the potential for complementary sound profiles when used in tandem.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, we can see notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Seashell switch features an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Silent Sakura has a lower actuation force of 37 grams, making the Silent Sakura the lighter option. The lighter force of the Silent Sakura can contribute to a more comfortable typing experience over long periods, which is ideal for users who prioritize extended usage, whether for work or gaming. In contrast, the Seashell’s higher actuation force might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel when typing. As for the bottom out force, the Silent Sakura's is specified at 43 grams, while the bottom out force for the Seashell is unknown. This lack of information makes it difficult to draw a direct comparison in that regard. However, the Silent Sakura’s actuation and bottom out forces suggest a consistent and light-touch experience, whereas the Seashell switch offers a slightly heavier actuation that may cater to users seeking a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Seashell linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Seashell switch provides a slightly shorter key press, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the Silent Sakura’s 4 mm distance falls within the traditional range and may offer a more substantial feel, appealing to users who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Consequently, those who value rapid actuation might gravitate towards the Seashell, while users who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience might opt for the longer-travel Silent Sakura. Thus, if you prioritize swift inputs, the Seashell switch is the optimal choice, whereas the Silent Sakura caters to those who appreciate a more tactile depth with their key presses.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
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
The sound profile of the Jerrzi Seashell switch is characterized by its clacky and high-pitched qualities, producing a sharp, crisp noise that is both bright and percussive when pressed. This auditory feedback can be quite engaging, appealing to those who enjoy the classic typing sound of mechanical keyboards. It creates a lively environment, punctuating each keystroke with an enthusiastic snap. In contrast, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches are designed for a more subdued acoustic experience. They promise a whisper-quiet operation, ideal for users who prefer a tranquil typing environment, reminiscent of soft raindrops against a window. It's worth noting that the actual sound can vary based on the keyboard construction and keycap materials used, but the Seashell clearly leans towards a more vibrant and full-bodied sound compared to the muted elegance of the Silent Sakura.
In terms of tactile feel, the Seashell switch stands out with its feathery and easy-to-press characteristics. The light actuation force ensures that fingers glide effortlessly across the keys, reducing strain and fatigue during lengthy typing sessions, whether for gaming, work, or general use. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch enhances the overall smoothness, making each key press a delightfully seamless experience. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Silent Sakura - 43g is not provided. However, given its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, it can be inferred that the Silent Sakura may also offer a comfortable and accessible typing experience, though specific descriptors about its tactile feedback are currently unknown.
In conclusion, both the Jerrzi Seashell and HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches cater to different preferences in sound and tactile interaction. With the Seashell offering a lively, high-pitched clack that makes each keystroke feel engaging and pronounced, it is perfect for enthusiasts who crave that classic mechanical feel. Conversely, the serene whisper of the Silent Sakura appeals to those looking for a quieter keyboard experience. While the Seashell excels in auditory feedback with a comforting tactile feel, the Silent Sakura likely brings a gentle touch, although more information is needed to draw a complete comparison. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize auditory stimulation or a peaceful typing atmosphere, both of which can provide enjoyable and comfortable typing experiences.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you lean towards a vibrant, aesthetic experience with a clacky sound profile, the Seashell switch is an excellent choice, especially if you enjoy long typing sessions and want a light yet responsive feel that minimizes finger fatigue. The combination of its feathery actuation and polished finish ensures a delightful typing experience that both gamers and typists can appreciate. However, if you require a quieter setup—whether for shared workspaces, late-night gaming, or simply preferring a more serene typing experience—the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g is the better option. With its whisper-quiet operation and gentle 43g bottom-out force, this switch caters well to those who prioritize a subdued atmosphere without sacrificing comfort. Ultimately, assessing your personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback will guide you towards the right choice for your mechanical keyboard configuration.
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