Gateron Beer vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Beer and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a tactile typing experience but with unique characteristics. The Gateron Beer stands out with its mesmerizing translucent green design inspired by a Tsingtao beer bottle, along with a lightweight feel and stepped tactility that provides a subtle typing feedback. Its clacky sound signature adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is perfect for those looking for a tactile and silenced switch, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. With a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, this switch offers a more polished and muted 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
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. However, when it comes to aesthetics, the clear housing of polycarbonate may give the Gateron Beer and Durock Silent T1 a similar visual appeal.
Where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Beer features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate, creating a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing material could result in a noticeable difference in typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of a switch. While both the Gateron Beer and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) employ polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound will depend on your personal preference when typing on these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, some notable differences emerge. The Gateron Beer has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, but its actuation force is unknown. Those who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Durock Silent T1. Both switches offer unique benefits, with the Gateron Beer being lighter overall, while the Durock Silent T1 provides a more solid and weighted typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal typing preferences and the desired level of force required for a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference between the two may not seem significant, but for those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Beer switch may be the preferred option. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Silent T1 switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a muted sound experience, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, your choice of board and keycaps will also play a significant role in the overall sound produced by these switches.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering a gentle resistance during key presses that requires minimal force to activate. Additionally, it provides a stepped tactility, giving a more subtle tactile feedback compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a stepped feel as well, along with an accented tactility that provides a medium amount of feedback without being overwhelming. Furthermore, it has a polished finish for a smooth and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Beer and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switches have their own unique sound and feel profiles, they both offer a tactile typing experience. If you prefer a more clacky sound with a lighter touch, the Beer switch may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you want a quieter typing experience with a medium bump and polished feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch could be the better option. Ultimately, personal preference and the overall keyboard setup will determine which switch would be the most ideal for your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, you should consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter switch with a unique clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Gateron Beer may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a medium-heavy switch with a muted sound, stepped and accented tactile feel, and a polished finish, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are looking for and what features are most important to you.
Mentioned in this article
