Gateron Aliaz vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both switches offer unique features tailored to different preferences. The Aliaz switch is designed for quiet environments such as offices, offering a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel with each keystroke, making it perfect for those who enjoy pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch caters to individuals looking for a tactile and silenced typing experience, making it ideal for noise-sensitive settings. With a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, this switch provides a different typing experience. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
75g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches lies in the bottom housing material. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, the Silent T1 utilizes nylon for the bottom housing. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the Silent T1 due to nylon's softness and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound output of the switches.
In terms of the top housing material, both the Aliaz and Silent T1 switches feature polycarbonate. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clear and resonant sound output, making it a popular choice for switches with clear housings. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting for an aesthetically pleasing look. Despite having the same top housing material, the differences in bottom housing materials between the Aliaz and Silent T1 switches can still lead to distinct typing experiences for users.
Overall, while the Gateron Aliaz and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches may share the same top housing material of polycarbonate, their bottom housing materials set them apart in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a clearer and sharper sound profile, while the Silent T1's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. The choice between these switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for typing feel and sound output, with the bottom housing material playing a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, which makes it a heavier option. In contrast, the Silent T1 has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent T1 may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Aliaz provides a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push force. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their differences in actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences for keyboard usage.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is interestingly the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 4 mm of travel distance from the top to the bottom. As a result, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches. It is worth noting that this similarity in travel distance may appeal to users who prioritize uniformity and consistency in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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, both the Gateron Aliaz and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches are described as muted, offering a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. This makes them both suitable for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum, such as an office or a shared living space. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switches are known for their silky and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and refined feel with reduced friction for a comfortable typing session. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches are described as stepped, accented, and polished, offering a tactile response that is not too overwhelming nor too subtle. The combination of these qualities provides a unique typing feel that caters to users who enjoy a medium tactile feedback combined with a cushioned bottom-out sensation.
Taking all of this information into account, both the Gateron Aliaz and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer a quiet typing experience suitable for noise-sensitive environments. While the Aliaz switches provide a medium-heavy weight and a pronounced typing feedback, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer a medium bump and a more cushioned bottom-out feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the desired level of tactility and the typing experience that best suits individual needs. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying typing experience that balances quiet operation with tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, you should consider your environment and typing preferences. If you work in a quiet office setting and prefer a substantial key feel with muted sound, the Aliaz switch with its heavy bottom out force might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are in a noise-sensitive environment and desire a tactile switch with a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch could be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a silky and polished typing experience, the Aliaz switch would cater to your preferences, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a stepped and accented feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing needs and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. Choose wisely to ensure a satisfying typing experience with either of these switches.
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