HMX Blue Topaz vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch are two popular options to consider. The Blue Topaz is renowned for its smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing a seamless experience. With a visually striking glittery housing and a distinct clacky sound signature, it appeals to those looking for both aesthetic charm and auditory satisfaction. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is tailored for users who desire a tactile switch with a quiet operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Providing a medium bump, a cushioned bottom-out feel, and subtle audio feedback, this switch offers a balanced 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
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
The housing materials of the HMX Blue Topaz and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) share similar characteristics when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, contributing to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing.
While both switches have polycarbonate top housing, they differ in terms of their bottom housing material. The Blue Topaz utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound characteristics to the Blue Topaz. This means that the typing experience on both switches will have a deeper and fuller sound thanks to their nylon bottom housing.
In terms of overall typing experience, the qualities of the housing materials for each switch are split between the top and bottom. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. In contrast, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite some differences in housing materials, both the HMX Blue Topaz and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer a pleasant typing experience with their combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that they offer different typing experiences. The Blue Topaz has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while its bottom out force of 48 grams provides a slightly more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) features an unknown actuation force, but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, resulting in a more pronounced push feel during typing. This makes the Blue Topaz the lighter option, perfect for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a heavier typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Blue Topaz being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Blue Topaz for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more deliberate key press may opt for the Silent T1. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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 HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound, known for its sharp and snappy noise when pressed, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a muted sound, perfect for noise-sensitive environments as it produces a softer and quieter noise compared to a regular switch. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Blue Topaz leaning towards a more pronounced and energetic sound, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) prioritizes a subdued and subdued audio feedback.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Blue Topaz linear switch boasts an easy-to-press quality, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended sessions. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a stepped and accented feel, combining a medium bump with a padded bottom-out sensation for a balanced tactile experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) enhances the typing feel by providing reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Topaz excels in providing a clacky sound and an easy-to-press feel for a lightweight typing experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) stands out with its muted sound and stepped, accented feel for a tactile yet quiet typing experience. Depending on personal preferences in sound and feel, both switches offer distinct advantages to cater to various user needs, ultimately providing a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch or the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a smooth actuation, lightweight feel, and clacky sound signature, the Blue Topaz may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you desire a switch that offers a medium bump, quiet operation, and a cushioned bottom-out feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be the ideal choice, especially in noise-sensitive environments. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, so carefully consider your priorities before making your decision. Ultimately, the right switch for you will enhance your typing experience and provide the tactile and auditory feedback you desire.
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