Jerrzi Seashell vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Seashell and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Seashell and the HMX Xinhai both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Seashell switch is praised for its stunning purple hue and comfortable typing experience, while the Xinhai switch boasts a softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp sound. Both switches provide a satisfying clacky feel, but the Seashell is lighter and easier to press, while the Xinhai offers a bouncier and creamier sensation. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Jerrzi Seashell and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through effectively. The similarities in the top housing material indicate that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetics from both switches.
In contrast, the Seashell features a nylon bottom housing, while the Xinhai also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, contributing to a different typing experience compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings. Despite the differences in bottom housing material between the two switches, both are designed to provide a unique sound profile to cater to individual preferences.
When considering the impact of top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities brought by each material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has a stronger impact on the sound produced when a key is released. This division of roles allows for a nuanced typing experience that incorporates the distinct characteristics of both the top and bottom housing materials in the Jerrzi Seashell and the HMX Xinhai switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that the Xinhai is lighter while the Seashell has a heavier bottom out force but an unknown bottom out force. The Seashell requires 45 grams of force to actuate a key, whereas the Xinhai only needs 37 grams. This means that the Xinhai might be preferred by those who like a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for extended periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Seashell might appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier actuation force. For those who are unsure about the bottom out force, opting for the Xinhai may yield similar results to the Seashell in terms of typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This consistent travel distance ensures a consistent typing experience for users, whether they are using the Seashell or the Xinhai. Both switches offer a smooth and linear keystroke with the same distance covered, providing a familiar feel for those who prefer this type of switch.
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 Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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 sound profile, which adds a crisp and percussive element to typing. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch also features a clacky sound but introduces a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. Both switches offer a unique auditory experience that can enhance the overall typing satisfaction, especially when paired with a compatible keyboard and keycap combination.
Moving on to feel, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is characterized by its feathery and easy-to-press qualities, requiring minimal force for activation and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the polished finish of the Seashell switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a bouncy and creamy tactile sensation, providing a spring-like feedback and a buttery smooth typing experience. Both switches deliver a comfortable and responsive typing feel that can cater to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch each have their own unique sound and feel characteristics, they both aim to provide an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a clacky and feathery switch like the Seashell or a clacky and bouncy switch like the Xinhai, both switches offer qualities that can enhance your overall typing comfort and performance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, but rest assured, you can expect similar levels of quality and satisfaction from either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a light and clacky typing experience with no bottom out force, combined with a stunning purple hue, the Seashell switch is the ideal choice for you. It offers a feathery, easy-to-press feel that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter 45-gram bottom out force switch with a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for higher-pitched resonance, the Xinhai switch is the perfect fit. It provides a bouncy and creamy typing feel, along with a crisp and clacky sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for aesthetics, sound, and tactile feel, ensuring that you select the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
