Jerrzi Seashell vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Seashell and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch both offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Seashell switch is renowned for its beautiful purple hue and clacky feel, providing a light and easy-to-press experience that is enjoyable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. While the Seashell switch is characterized by its high-pitched and feathery feel, the Duck switch is described as buttery and polished. Each switch has its own appeal depending on personal preference and typing style. 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
58g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Jerrzi Seashell and the SP-Star Duck both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Seashell's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Although both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the Seashell and Duck differ in their bottom housing materials. While the Seashell's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper sound profile, the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials showcases how the qualities of each material can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch. The choice between nylon and polycarbonate for the bottom housing can significantly affect the typing experience and sound produced by the switch.
When comparing the Seashell and Duck, it becomes apparent that the top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches. The combination of polycarbonate top housing with nylon bottom housing in the Seashell creates a unique typing experience with a balance of sharpness and depth in sound. In contrast, the Duck's consistent use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings results in a more uniform and consistent sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between different housing materials allows for customization in sound and feel, catering to individual preferences in typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the Seashell is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Duck has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the Seashell is unknown, whereas the Duck has a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it the heavier option. The difference in weight between the two switches can greatly impact the typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Seashell for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the heavier bottom out force of the Duck for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. The Seashell offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a favorite among gamers for its faster response time. On the other hand, the Duck switch provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more deliberate key press. Both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances compared to more traditional options, catering to the growing demand for quicker keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for responsiveness versus keypress depth.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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, snappy, and bright sound when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement that caters to a wider range of users. Sound preference often comes down to personal taste, with the Seashell providing a more distinct and pronounced sound, while the Duck offers a cleaner and crispier sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Jerrzi Seashell switch is described as feathery, easy-to-press, and polished, offering a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and enhances overall comfort during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the SP-Star Duck switch is characterized as mild, buttery, and polished, providing a more gentle and uniform typing sensation that falls within a safe middle ground in terms of tactile feedback. Both switches prioritize a smooth and refined keystroke experience, with the Seashell focusing on light actuation and minimal resistance, while the Duck aims for a consistent and effortless keystroke.
Taking all available information into account, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a sharp and high-pitched sound with light and clacky typing sensations, the Seashell switch may be the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a cleaner and neutral sound with a gentle and buttery typing feel, the Duck switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual sound and feel preferences, as both switches provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a light and clacky switch with stunning aesthetics, the Seashell would be a great choice for a comfortable and delightful typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the Duck switch would be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what suits your typing style best.
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