Jerrzi Seashell vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Seashell and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jerrzi Seashell and the Gateron Smoothie Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches but offer different characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. The Jerrzi Seashell stands out with its stunning purple hue, providing both aesthetic beauty and functionality. It is praised for its light and clacky typing experience that remains comfortable and delightful even during long typing sessions, making it a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver boasts lightning-fast actuation due to its all-POM construction, along with a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch. While the Seashell is known for its clacky and feathery feel, the Smoothie Silver emphasizes quick actuation and smoothness. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Seashell and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, both switches feature unique characteristics that contribute to their sound profiles. The Seashell utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. While both materials offer distinct sonic qualities, they cater to different preferences in sound with the Seashell providing a brighter tone and the Smoothie Silver offering a more subdued sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Seashell incorporates a nylon bottom housing which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile with its softer plastic composition. Similarly, the Smoothie Silver also utilizes POM for its bottom housing, leading to a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Both nylon and POM bring their own set of characteristics to the switches, with nylon offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM's more pronounced depth.
While the Jerrzi Seashell and the Gateron Smoothie Silver may have different top and bottom housing materials, the overall sound experience of pressing down and releasing a key is influenced by both materials. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, whether one prefers a brighter and sharper tone or a deeper and more muted sound.
Weight
The Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of initiating a keystroke. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown, so it is unclear which switch requires a heavier force for fully depressing the key. When considering weight in switches, some users prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others prefer a heavier force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, without knowing the bottom out force for each switch, it is difficult to determine which one is the lighter or heavier option in terms of force required for a complete keystroke.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.4mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect to get similar results from both switches.
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 Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a thocky sound, offering unparalleled smoothness with a feather-light touch. Depending on personal preference, the Seashell switch may cater to those who enjoy a crisp and bright sound, while the Smoothie Silver switch appeals to those looking for a smoother and quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a comfortable typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch results in smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel. As for the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, information on its feel is currently unknown. However, based on the description of a feather-light touch and unparalleled smoothness, users may expect a similar level of comfort and ease of typing.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch stands out for its stunning aesthetic design, clacky sound, and feathery feel, making it a joy for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offers lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, and a feather-light touch, catering to those who prefer smooth and quiet switches. Both switches may provide a pleasant typing experience, with the Seashell switch focusing on aesthetic beauty and comfort, while the Smoothie Silver switch prioritizes speed and smoothness. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch or the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize aesthetics and enjoy a light and clacky typing experience that remains comfortable over long periods, the Seashell switch may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer lightning-fast actuation with a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver switch could be the ideal choice. Consider the sound and feel profiles of each switch carefully to determine which aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so make your decision based on what matters most to you.
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