Bsun Avocado vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the BSUN Avocado and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a tactile typing experience but with some distinct differences. The Avocado switch is praised for its snappy and buttery tactile bump, providing satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. Its mild and neutral sound signature contributes to a serene typing environment. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is tailored for those seeking a tactile switch with a silenced operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive settings. This switch offers a medium bump, cushioned bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. While the Avocado is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is labeled as 'Stepped', 'Accented', 'Muted', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique features that cater to different preferences, but diving deeper into their nuances will help you determine the best switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile and is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. The Avocado and Silent T1 (Shrimp) will likely deliver similar sound characteristics and aesthetics due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, when looking at the bottom housing material, the Avocado utilizes nylon while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also features nylon material in its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other materials. It absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that can greatly impact the typing experience on these switches.
In terms of feel and sound when typing, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. With the Avocado and Silent T1 (Shrimp) splitting the housing materials between the top and bottom, users can expect a well-balanced typing experience that combines the properties of polycarbonate and nylon to create a unique sound and feel with each keystroke.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we see some differences in weight. The Avocado has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is lighter than the Silent T1 with an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of bottom out force. The actuation force of the Silent T1 is unknown, meaning it may be lighter than the Avocado in this aspect. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, the Avocado may be the better choice. However, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Silent T1 with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Avocado offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is preferred by some gamers for increased speed. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a bit more depth in the key press, which may be more comfortable for those who prefer a more traditional typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Avocado switch offers a mild, neutral sound signature, creating an unobtrusive typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as producing a muted sound, ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches aim to provide a quieter typing experience, with the Avocado offering a slightly different sound profile compared to the Silent T1.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Avocado switch is characterized by its sharp and snappy tactile feedback, creating an invigorating typing sensation. The switch offers a pronounced tactile bump without being overwhelming, providing a satisfying keypress experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as having a stepped and accented tactile feel, offering a more subdued yet still prominent tactile response. The switch also boasts a polished finish, enhancing the smoothness of each keypress.
Overall, both the Bsun Avocado and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. While the Avocado provides a sharper and more pronounced tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile, the Silent T1 offers a more muted sound signature and a stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you value a pronounced, sharp, and snappy tactile feedback without overwhelming noise, the Avocado might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a muted sound profile, a padded bottom-out feel, and a switch that is perfect for noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be the ideal pick. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for tactile feedback, sound level, and typing experience in order to find the switch that best suits your needs.