Gateron CAP Anniversary vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The CAP Anniversary is renowned for its incredibly smooth keystrokes due to its innovative CAP structure and aerodynamically designed stem, resulting in minimal resistance and enhanced smoothness. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a popular choice for those seeking a tactile and silenced switch, providing a medium bump and quiet operation for noise-sensitive environments. While the CAP Anniversary is described as 'Snappy', 'Creamy', and 'Polished', the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is characterized as 'Stepped', 'Accented', 'Muted', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers distinct advantages depending on individual preferences and needs. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches utilize a polycarbonate 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 designed with RGB lighting in mind. However, where they differ is in their bottom housings. The CAP Anniversary features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar deeper and fuller sound profile characteristic of nylon material.
While both the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) share the same polycarbonate top housing, their differing nylon bottom housings offer distinct differences in sound profile. The nylon bottom housing on both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. These differences in sound profile can be attributed to the ability of nylon to absorb more sound than stiffer plastics, allowing for a unique typing experience with each switch. Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of these switches work together to offer a balanced sound profile for users to enjoy.
Overall, while the Gateron CAP Anniversary and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) may have similar top housing materials in polycarbonate, their distinction lies in their nylon bottom housings. The CAP Anniversary's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s nylon bottom housing provides a similar typing experience. Both switches offer a blend of sharpness from the polycarbonate top housing and depth from the nylon bottom housing, resulting in a well-rounded sound profile for users to appreciate. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the CAP Anniversary or a rounder sound with the Silent T1 (Shrimp), these housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we see that the CAP Anniversary has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent T1 with an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the CAP Anniversary requiring 65 grams and the Silent T1 needing 67 grams. The lighter actuation force of the CAP Anniversary may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Silent T1's slightly heavier bottom out force may provide a more robust typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, it can be noted that both switches offer a consistent typing experience with the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and feedback, as both switches provide the same amount of travel distance. Overall, whether you choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, you can be assured of a 4 mm travel distance for a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the CAP Anniversary switch offers a more traditional mechanical keyboard sound, which may be on the louder side depending on various factors. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is known for its muted sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, especially in noise-sensitive environments.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the CAP Anniversary switch is praised for its snappy and creamy typing feel, providing a responsive and smooth keystroke with reduced wobble. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch enhances the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a stepped and accented tactile feel, giving users a distinct and satisfying bump with a padded bottom-out feel. The polished switch finish also contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the CAP Anniversary excels in providing a smooth and stable keystroke with traditional mechanical keyboard sound, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) stands out for its muted sound profile and distinct tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on whether one prioritizes sound, feel, or a combination of both in their typing experience. Regardless of choice, users can expect a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch or the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing needs. If you prioritize smooth keystrokes and stability with minimal wobble, then the CAP Anniversary may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you want a tactile switch that offers a medium bump with a silenced typing experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be the ideal option. Consider the sound, feel, and bottom out force of each switch to determine which one suits your typing style best. Ultimately, both switches have their unique features that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
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