Bsun Pine vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Pine and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are two popular options to compare and contrast. The Bsun Pine stands out for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) caters to those seeking a tactile switch with reduced noise levels, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. While the Pine offers a more invigorating and snappy typing experience, the Silent T1 provides a more muted and polished feel. 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
65g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Pine and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) feature polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a clear and resonant sound due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the switches. This similarity in housing material results in a consistent sound profile and visual experience for users of both switches.
In terms of bottom housing, the Bsun Pine and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilize nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material between the two switches may lead to a variation in the typing experience, with the Bsun Pine potentially offering a slightly softer typing feel compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). Overall, the use of nylon in the bottom housing adds a unique acoustic quality to both switches.
While both switches share similarities in their top housing material, the Bsun Pine and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer a contrast in their bottom housing material. The Bsun Pine's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s nylon bottom housing creates a slightly different typing experience. This distinction highlights how different housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches, catering to the preferences of individual users. Despite these differences, both switches ultimately offer unique typing experiences that are enhanced by their choice of housing materials.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Pine at 65 grams and the Silent T1 at 67 grams. The Pine offers a slightly lighter typing experience in terms of actuation force, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the Silent T1 provides a bit more resistance, giving a more substantial feel with a slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that the Pine has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine's 3.4 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Silent T1's 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper key press, which may be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance - whether one favors a shorter, quicker keystroke or a longer, more deliberate pressing action.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 Pine switch produces a crisp and clear click sound due to its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, making it more audible compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch which is designed to minimize noise with its muted feedback. The auditory experience of a switch is also influenced by the keyboard build and keycaps used, so it is essential to consider those factors when choosing a switch based on sound preference.
Moving on to feel, the Bsun Pine switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile sensation with a snappy response, delivering a strong and distinct tactile bump with each keypress. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch provides a stepped and accented tactile feel that is more subtle and refined, creating a softer bottom-out experience. The polished finish of the Silent T1 contributes to a smoother key travel, enhancing the typing comfort for prolonged use.
Overall, the Bsun Pine switch is ideal for users seeking a direct and immediate tactile feedback with a louder click sound, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is perfect for those looking for a more muted and refined tactile experience with reduced noise output. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a sharp and pronounced tactile bump with fast action and clear feedback, the Pine switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you require a tactile switch that offers a quieter typing experience with a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is worth considering. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, so it ultimately comes down to whether you prefer a more accentuated and invigorating typing feel with the Pine, or a stepped and polished tactile experience with the Silent T1 (Shrimp). Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and environment to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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