Jerrzi Seashell vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Seashell and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jerrzi Seashell and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, some key differences and similarities stand out. The Jerrzi Seashell switch is celebrated for its stunning purple hue and light, clacky feel, offering a comfortable and delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," boasts innovative travel distances and factory lubing techniques, appealing to those looking for a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound profile. While the Seashell switch is characterized as 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'Easy-to-press', the Type A is described as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. Each switch has its unique attributes that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
50g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Jerrzi Seashell and the Gateron Type A both feature a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches utilizing this material. In contrast, the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced by the switch. This difference in housing materials results in distinct sound experiences for users of these switches.
Both the Jerrzi Seashell and the Gateron Type A boast nylon bottom housings, which absorb more sound and create a deeper tone when typing on the switches. This commonality in housing material ensures that users will experience a similar sound profile when bottoming out keys on both switches. However, the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing provides a contrasting acoustic experience compared to the Type A's nylon top housing. The Seashell's top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Type A's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound when keys are pressed.
The split between top and bottom housings in switches like the Jerrzi Seashell and the Gateron Type A results in a combination of sound profiles depending on where the key is pressed. The bottom housing, made of nylon in both switches, impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. This creates a deeper and fuller sound experience for users. Conversely, the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound produced when lifting a key. Therefore, users can expect a mix of sharpness from the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing and roundness from the Type A's nylon top housing when typing on these switches.
Weight
The Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Type A linear switch with 50 grams. Both switches do not disclose their bottom out force, but the Type A is described as medium-light at 55 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Seashell may appeal to those who prefer a gentler typing experience for extended periods. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Type A may provide a more robust and substantial typing feel for users who prefer a firmer push. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing experience and desired actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, we can see that the Seashell has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Type A has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Seashell offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Type A, making it more ideal for those who prefer a quicker response time, such as gamers looking for fast key presses. On the other hand, the Type A's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys. Both switches offer different options for individuals based on their preferences, showing that the travel distance plays a significant role in the overall typing experience.
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 Type A comes in at $4.70 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
In terms of sound, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched characteristics, producing sharp and bright sound when pressed. This adds a level of crispness and percussiveness to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch leans towards a more neutral and subdued sound profile, offering a sound that is moderate and dampened. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the Seashell providing a more lively and energetic sound, while the Type A offers a more subtle and mellow tone to typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the Seashell switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, providing a light and effortless typing experience that is comfortable for extended use. The polished finish of the Seashell also contributes to a smooth and refined key travel. Unfortunately, detailed information on the feel of the Gateron Type A switch is not provided. However, based on the known characteristics of the Seashell switch, it can be inferred that the Type A switch may offer a similar light and easy-to-press feel, providing a comfortable typing experience for users.
Overall, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch stands out for its unique purple hue, light and clacky sound, and feathery feel, making it a visually appealing and enjoyable switch for keyboard enthusiasts. The Gateron Type A linear switch, on the other hand, offers a different sound profile that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, and is likely to provide a moderate and comfortable typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so the choice between the two would ultimately depend on individual taste in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider their unique characteristics. If you value a light and clacky typing experience with a stunning purple hue, then the Seashell switch would be a fantastic choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound signature and factory lubing techniques, the Type A switch might better suit your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics to ensure that your mechanical keyboard experience is personalized to your liking.
Mentioned in this article
