Jerrzi Seashell vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Seashell and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Seashell switch entices users with its stunning purple hue and light, clacky feel, providing a comfortable typing experience perfect for extended use. On the other hand, the U4T switch boasts a harmonious blend of thockiness and sharp tactility, offering a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback with each keystroke. While the Seashell switch is easy-to-press and polished, the U4T switch is categorized as bassy, thocky, and sharp. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences 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
65g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jerrzi Seashell and the Gazzew U4T offer unique characteristics that affect the sound profile of the switches. The Seashell features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffer nature. On the other hand, the U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While the Seashell's top housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, the U4T's top housing focuses on producing a more mellow and rounded sound.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both switches differ with the Seashell incorporating a nylon bottom housing and the U4T using its proprietary Gazzew blend. The Seashell's nylon bottom housing is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound-absorbing properties. Similarly, the U4T's Gazzew blend bottom housing offers a rich and deep sound profile, emphasizing the softness of the material. Despite the difference in material, both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches, with the Seashell's nylon offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the U4T's blend.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches significantly impacts the sound and feel of typing. While the Seashell and U4T both prioritize creating a unique sound profile, they do so through different means with their top and bottom housing materials. The Seashell's combination of polycarbonate and nylon offers a mix of sharpness and depth, while the U4T's proprietary blend in both housings delivers a consistent rich and deep sound. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in achieving specific sound profiles and overall typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is clear that there is a significant difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Seashell has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the U4T, which has an unknown actuation force. This means that the Seashell will require less force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the U4T is heavier with a force of 65 grams, while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. This indicates that the U4T will provide a more substantial typing experience, requiring more force to press all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Seashell would be the better option, while the U4T would be more suitable for users looking for a heavier switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Seashell offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster keystrokes. On the other hand, the U4T provides a bit more depth and tactile feel with its longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance 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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch produces a bassy and thocky sound, offering a deep and rich auditory experience with a satisfying thud-like sound. Both switches provide unique sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preferences and setup.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Jerrzi Seashell switch is known for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the polished finish of the Seashell switch contributes to a smooth and sleek typing experience. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a sharp tactile bump that provides a high feedback intensity with each key press, ensuring a distinct tactile sensation.
Overall, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. While the Seashell switch provides a light and clacky typing experience with a stunning purple hue, the U4T switch offers a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility for auditory and tactile satisfaction. Both switches bring their own unique characteristics to the table, giving users the opportunity to customize their typing experience based on personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch or the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a light and clacky switch with a stunning aesthetic appeal, the Seashell would be a fantastic choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force that offers a thocky sound profile and sharp tactile feedback, the U4T could be the ideal option. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences, so be sure to evaluate what factors are most important to you in a keyboard switch before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Seashell and U4T switches will depend on your individual needs and preferences as a keyboard enthusiast.
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