Kailh Box White V2 vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, users often find themselves weighing the unique characteristics of different options to suit their typing preferences and environments. The Kailh Box White V2 is a clicky switch celebrated for its crisp tactile feedback and pronounced audible click, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the satisfying sound of each keystroke and want to enhance their typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) stands out as a tactile switch specifically designed for noise-sensitive environments, striking a balance between tactile response with its medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, all while minimizing audible feedback. This makes it ideal for those who want the feel of a tactile switch without the distracting sound. Each switch caters to different needs and preferences, with the Box White V2 appealing to audio enthusiasts and the Silent T1 to those seeking a quieter 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches, both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This shared material provides a crisp and clear auditory feedback due to polycarbonate's rigidity, enhancing the overall resonance of the switches. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal for setups that incorporate RGB lighting. Users will find that both switches, when paired with RGB, positively showcase the lighting effects, highlighting the visual appeal of the keyboard while maintaining similar sound characteristics.
On the flip side, the bottom housings for both the Box White V2 and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) are made from nylon, a material known for its sound-dampening properties. The nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This design choice complements the polycarbonate top housing by balancing the overall auditory experience; while the top housing contributes a crisp sound during key releases, the nylon bottom housing ensures a more mellow tone upon bottoming out. Consequently, you can expect the tactile experience of both switches to be rounder and deeper due to this nylon material.
Thus, while the top and bottom housing materials differ in their acoustical properties and tactile feedback, they work synergistically to create a unique typing experience. Fans of both switches will appreciate how the polycarbonate's clarity in sound merges with the nylon's warmth, crafting a well-rounded auditory profile. The combination of these materials allows users to experience a balance of sharpness, depth, and resonance, making both switches appealing choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, a distinct difference in actuation and bottom out forces becomes evident. The Kailh Box White V2 features a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an unknown actuation force but possesses a significantly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that while the exact actuation force remains unspecified, the overall feedback of the Silent T1 will be considerably firmer, appealing to users who appreciate a more substantial push feel when typing. Consequently, users seeking a lighter option should lean towards the Kailh Box White V2, while those who favor a heavier and more tactile experience might find the Silent T1 more to their liking.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, the distinction is clear: the Box White V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent T1 measures a longer 4 mm. This makes the Kailh Box White V2 the shorter option, providing a quicker response, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking speed and efficiency in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1's 4 mm travel distance offers a more gratifying depth that some users might prefer for a more tactile experience. Thus, individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Silent T1 more suitable for their typing needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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
The Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch is characterized by its distinctively loud and sharp click sound, creating an engaging auditory experience that many typists find satisfying. Its clicky nature is accompanied by a pronounced tactile feedback, adding to the overall sensation of each keystroke. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch features a much more muted sound profile, which is purposefully designed to minimize noise. This makes it an excellent choice for environments where noise sensitivity is a concern. The Silent T1's softer feedback provides a tranquil typing experience, allowing users to enjoy the tactile feel without the auditory distraction typically associated with mechanical switches.
When it comes to feel, the Box White V2 is known for its crisp, tactile feedback that is immediately felt upon pressing the key. This switch delivers a satisfying response that typists often seek, particularly for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile sensation while typing. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a more nuanced feel with its stepped action. Users will appreciate the medium bump that provides a clear distinction in the keystroke without overwhelming the fingers. Furthermore, the Silent T1 is also noted for its polished smoothness, resulting in a refined typing experience that minimizes friction and enhances overall comfort. This combination makes the Silent T1 an appealing option for both casual and heavy typists who desire a tactile response without excessive noise.
In summary, the Kailh Box White V2 and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer distinct yet appealing qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Box White V2’s clicky sound and crisp tactile feedback create an engaging and responsive typing atmosphere, while the Silent T1 excels in delivering a muted sound profile paired with a comfortable and polished feel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your environment and typing style, but both options provide excellent experiences tailored to different needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you enjoy an audible click and crisp tactile feedback while typing, and you don’t mind a bit of noise, the Box White V2 might be the perfect fit for you. Its lighter bottom-out force of 50 grams makes it an excellent option for rapid typing, enhancing both speed and accuracy. On the other hand, if you find yourself in a quieter setting or prefer a more subdued typing experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the better choice. With its medium-heavy 67 grams of actuation force and a muted sound profile, this switch excels in noise-sensitive environments while still providing you with a tactile feel that's both pleasant and less disruptive. The stepped, accented tactile bump allows for engaging feedback without being overwhelming, making the Silent T1 suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where you want to maintain focus without excess noise. Thus, your decision will largely hinge on whether you prioritize an engaging auditory and tactile response or a smoother, quieter experience.
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