Kailh Box Navy vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options stand out: the clicky Kailh Box Navy and the tactile Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). If you crave a heavy typing experience accompanied by the satisfying sound and tactility of a clicky switch, then the Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. These switches not only offer a robust feel but also evoke nostalgia with their sound signature reminiscent of the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is ideal for those seeking a tactile switch that is also silenced, making it a great choice for noise-sensitive environments. With a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, this switch provides both a pleasant tactile experience and subdued audio feedback. While these general pointers highlight the key features of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide which switch suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, making both switches visually appealing when illuminated.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon as their material of choice. This classic switch housing material creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for greater sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This adds a distinctive touch to the typing experience, giving it a more satisfying and robust feel.
Although the top and bottom housing materials differ for these switches, the qualities each material brings to the switch are split between the two sections. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's impact is more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel from both the Kailh Box Navy and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), with slight variations depending on the specific housing material utilized in each section.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we can observe some notable differences. The Box Navy switch has an actuation force of 60 grams, requiring a moderate amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Silent T1 switch is unavailable, preventing us from directly comparing the two. However, the Box Navy switch has a heavier bottom out force of 90 grams, implying a more substantial typing experience when fully pressing down. On the other hand, the Silent T1 switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls in the medium-heavy range.
Taking weight into consideration, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Silent T1 switch as it allows for longer periods of typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. However, for those seeking a more robust and tactile feedback, the Box Navy switch would be the better option with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, while the actuation force of the Silent T1 switch is unknown, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have different travel distances. The Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the Silent T1 falls within the average travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Box Navy is slightly shorter. For gamers or individuals seeking faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Box Navy may be preferred. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt and prefer the deeper depth provided by the longer travel distance of the Silent T1. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Box Navy switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience. When typing on these switches, you can expect a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp, reminiscent of buckling keyboards from the 80s. The sound is similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch provides a muted sound experience. This switch produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular clicky switches, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. The sound is minimized to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the choice of keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch offers a sharp, invigorating, and stiff typing experience. These switches have a strong and crisp tactile bump, providing high feedback intensity. Each keypress can be distinctly felt. They also require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out, meaning you'll need to apply more force when pressing the keys. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch provides a stepped, accented, and polished feel. These switches have two stages of tactility, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The tactility is prominent but not overwhelming or subtle. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Navy and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer distinct subjective qualities. The Box Navy is best suited for those seeking a heavy typing experience with a clicky sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. It provides a resonant and crunchy sound, sharp tactile feedback, and requires a higher amount of force to actuate. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is ideal for those who want a tactile and silenced switch. It offers a muted sound profile, a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and a stepped and accented tactile experience. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and typing environment when choosing between these switches, as they will provide different experiences to cater to your needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and love the sound signature and tactility of a clicky switch, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. Their heftiness and sound signature hark back to the vintage buckling keyboards of the 80s. The resonant and crunchy sound profile of the Box Navy switches will provide an immersive auditory experience that resembles the sound of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Additionally, the sharp and invigorating tactile feedback of the Box Navy switches will make each keypress distinct and satisfying. On the other hand, if you want both a tactile and silenced switch for a noise-sensitive environment, then the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches are ideal. With a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, these switches offer a moderate to firm actuation force and create a more mild and accented tactile sensation. The muted sound profile of the Silent T1 switches will minimize keyboard noise and provide a softer and quieter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Navy and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches depends on your preference for typing experience, sound, and tactility.
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