Jerrzi Seashell vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Seashell and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Seashell and the Gateron Smoothie are both linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The Seashell switch is renowned for its stunning purple hue and light, clacky feel, making it a visually appealing and enjoyable option for typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its all-POM construction, offering a thocky sound signature and remarkable smoothness. While the Seashell switch is described as 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'High-pitched', the Smoothie switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', and 'Creamy'. If you're looking for a switch that is easy-to-press and polished, the Seashell may be the choice for you. However, if you prefer a switch with a low-pitched, creamy feel, the Gateron Smoothie could be the ideal option. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
The Jerrzi Seashell and Gateron Smoothie both showcase unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switch. The Seashell utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Smoothie's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both materials offer clarity and resonance, making them ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Despite their differences, they both provide distinct auditory experiences for users.
On the other hand, the Seashell features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing contributes to a deep and muted sound profile, offering a unique auditory experience. While the top and bottom housings of both switches differ in material, they each bring a specific set of qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release.
Overall, the choice between the Jerrzi Seashell and Gateron Smoothie ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Seashell's polycarbonate top housing provides a crisper and sharper sound, contrasting with the Smoothie's POM top housing, which offers a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches' bottom housing materials contribute to a fuller sound profile, with Seashell's nylon bottom housing offering a rounder sound compared to Smoothie's POM bottom housing. Ultimately, users can expect a unique and pleasing auditory experience regardless of which switch they choose.
Weight
The Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Smoothie for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier actuation force of the Seashell for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and how it affects typing feel and performance.
Travel distance
The Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Smoothie has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Seashell. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be significant, but it can still affect the typing or gaming experience for some individuals. Those who prefer a slightly shorter travel distance may opt for the Seashell switch, as it offers a quicker response time. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the Smoothie switch. Ultimately, both switches provide a relatively similar typing experience due to the subtle difference in their travel distances.
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 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 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 characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound that is deep and satisfying, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The Seashell switch leans towards a sharper and brighter sound, while the Smoothie switch delivers a richer and more dampened typing experience. Both switches present unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences and typing environments, with the Seashell being more vibrant and crisp, and the Smoothie offering a smoother and deeper sound.
In terms of feel, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch is described as feathery, easy-to-press, and polished, providing a light, effortless, and smooth typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue and enhances comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a seamless, uniform, and exceptionally smooth keystroke sensation that glides effortlessly across the keys. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable and responsive typing feel, with the Seashell offering a lighter touch and the Smoothie delivering a remarkable smoothness and fluidity.
Overall, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Seashell switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound with a feathery and easy-to-press feel, the Smoothie switch delivers a thocky, low-pitched sound with a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. Choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for sound characteristics, key feel, and desired typing experience. Both switches guarantee a delightful and enjoyable typing experience, with the Seashell focusing on lightness and clackiness, while the Smoothie prioritizes smoothness and deep sound richness. Ultimately, selecting either switch will result in a satisfying and comfortable typing experience, tailored to individual preferences and typing styles.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, you should consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light and clacky typing experience with a stunning purple hue, the Seashell switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a feathery feel that reduces finger fatigue and a high-pitched, clacky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie switch may be more suited to your liking. With a buttery, creamy, and silky typing feel, the Smoothie switch provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific characteristics that align with your typing preferences and overall typing experience.
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