HMX Game1989 vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the HMX Game1989 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference plays a pivotal role in choosing the right fit for your typing or gaming experience. The HMX 1989 linear switch stands out in the HMX Film series for its impressive depth and thockiness, making it an excellent option for those who enjoy a smooth keystroke without the interruption of tactile feedback. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a blend of tactile and muted characteristics, making it particularly appealing for environments where noise is a concern. With a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, the Silent T1 allows users to enjoy satisfying a tactile experience while minimizing sound. Each switch has its unique strengths: the HMX 1989 for those seeking a fluid and quiet feel in gaming sprees, and the Silent T1 for users who prefer tactile feedback in a noise-sensitive setting. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX 1989 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), it’s clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This similarity contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches, primarily due to the inherent stiffness of polycarbonate as a material. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal for configurations that incorporate RGB lighting. This common feature means that when using either switch, enthusiasts can expect vibrant lighting effects that enhance both the visual and auditory experience.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the HMX 1989 and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) use nylon, a classic and well-regarded material in the world of mechanical switches. Nylon's softer characteristics lead to a deeper, fuller sound profile, effectively absorbing sound and providing a rounder auditory experience. This shared quality contributes to the overall typing feel, allowing for a satisfying yet smooth keystroke across both switches. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel, which is consistent in both models thanks to the use of nylon.
Ultimately, while the HMX 1989 and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are constructed from similar materials—polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom—their shared qualities result in a consistent typing experience across both models. Users can expect clear, resonant sound from the top housing and a warm, muted bottom-out feel from the nylon bottom, regardless of their choice. This overlap in materials allows for a predictable performance profile, making both switches an excellent option for typists and gamers alike who appreciate the different yet complementary sound characteristics offered by each housing type.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This lighter force may appeal to users who prioritize comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions, allowing for a more effortless keystroke experience. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) does not specify its actuation force, but its bottom out force is considerably higher at 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This suggests a firmer typing experience, which may attract users who prefer the tactile feedback of a heavier switch. Therefore, users seeking a lighter feel would gravitate towards the HMX 1989, while those who appreciate a deeper, more substantial typing sensation might find the Durock Silent T1 more appealing. Overall, while both switches have their unique features, their differing actuation and bottom out forces highlight the trade-offs between comfort and typing feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX 1989 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users will experience similar keystroke feedback and key feel when pressing down on either switch. Since both switches have the same travel distance, typists can expect comparable results in terms of bottoming out and overall keystroke depth. This equality in travel distance ensures that those accustomed to one switch will not face significant adjustment when transitioning to the other, providing a consistent typing experience across both switch types.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Game1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Game1989 for $3.29.
The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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 HMX 1989 linear switch is renowned for its deep and thocky acoustics, making it a standout option for those who seek a pronounced auditory feedback while typing. This quality contributes to an engaging experience that many enthusiasts appreciate, particularly in a mechanical keyboard context. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is designed for environments where silence is paramount, offering a muted sound profile that minimizes the typical clacking associated with mechanical switches. The softer audio feedback the Silent T1 provides is perfect for users who prefer to type in a noise-sensitive setting, allowing for discrete operation without sacrificing enjoyment.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 is characterized by its smooth linear action, which allows for uninterrupted key travel without tactile bumps to engage the user, providing a fluid and fast typing experience. This type of switch can cater to gamers and typists who appreciate consistency in their keystrokes. Conversely, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a stepped tactile experience, with a medium bump that provides a clear yet not overwhelming indication of actuation. Its polished finish adds to a refined feel, ensuring smooth keystrokes with minimal friction. This switch details an accented tactility that strikes a balance between being noticeable and not excessive, appealing to those who enjoy tactile feedback without the harshness that can be found in more aggressive tactile switches.
Overall, both switches cater to different preferences, revealing the diversity in mechanical keyboard choices. The HMX 1989 is ideal for users who revel in bold sound and smooth linearity, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) caters to those seeking a quieter and more refined tactile experience. Ultimately, selecting between these two options will come down to your personal preferences regarding sound level and feel, allowing you to tailor your keyboard setup to best suit your typing or gaming needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a smooth, quieter typing experience and seek a switch that feels medium-light with pleasant acoustics, the HMX 1989 is an excellent choice, especially if you are into gaming or typing without loud sound feedback. Its deeper thocky sound profile adds a satisfying auditory element for those who appreciate a richer audio experience. Conversely, if you're in a noise-sensitive environment and require a switch that balances tactile feedback with muted sound, the Silent T1 is likely the better option for you. With a medium-heavy bottom-out force, it gives you a more pronounced tactile bump while minimizing noise, catering well to those who want an effective yet quiet typing experience. Additionally, its polished texture allows for smooth keystrokes, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. In essence, assessing your specific needs—whether you prioritize acoustics and light feeling or tactile feedback and quiet operation—will guide you to the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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