KTT F2 vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT F2 and Durock Silent T1 (shrimp) offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The KTT F2 stands out for its hollow sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience during typing. With a medium-light weightiness and lightly textured feel, each keystroke on the F2 switch adds a tactile nuance to your typing. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (shrimp) is best known for offering a tactile and silenced switch, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. With a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, this switch provides a comfortable typing experience with subdued audio feedback. While the F2 is characterized as feathery, mild, neutral, subdued, subtle, the Silent T1 is categorized as stepped, accented, muted, polished. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences; 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the KTT F2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) lies in their bottom housing material. The F2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) uses a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer composition. This contrast in bottom housing materials results in a noticeable difference in the typing experience between the two switches.
In terms of their top housing material, both the KTT F2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilize polycarbonate. This material choice brings a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile to both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of both the F2 and the Silent T1 (Shrimp). Despite having the same top housing material, the switches may still offer slight variations in typing sound due to other factors like stem or spring design.
Overall, while the F2 and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) share a common polycarbonate top housing material, their different bottom housing materials give each switch a distinct sound profile. The F2's polycarbonate bottom housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound will likely influence your choice between these two switches based on their housing materials.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the F2 is also lighter at 53 grams, while the Silent T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. In terms of weight, the F2 would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Silent T1 would cater to individuals who prefer a more robust and substantial typing feel with a heavier force. Both switches offer different typing experiences, so users can choose based on their personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we see that the F2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Silent T1's 4 mm travel distance. The difference of 0.5 mm may seem small, but in the world of mechanical keyboards, every millimeter can make a difference. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the F2 with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress may lean towards the Silent T1. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the user. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, but when it comes to travel distance, the F2 is shorter while the Silent T1 is longer.
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 KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 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 KTT F2 linear switch has a more neutral and subdued sound profile, offering a moderate noise level that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is known for its muted sound, providing a quieter typing experience that is ideal for noise-sensitive settings. Both switches aim to minimize the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, with the F2 offering a more subtle sound signature compared to the Silent T1.
When it comes to feel, the KTT F2 linear switch boasts a feathery and mild typing experience, with a gentle resistance that reduces finger fatigue and strain during extended typing sessions. The lightly textured feel of each keystroke adds a tactile nuance to every press. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a stepped and accented feel, providing a more pronounced level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the polished finish of the Silent T1 ensures a smooth and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, both the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the F2 offers a more neutral and subdued sound with a feathery typing experience, the Silent T1 provides a muted sound profile with a stepped and accented tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user prioritizes a distinct auditory experience and a lightly textured feel (F2) or a silenced typing experience with a more pronounced level of tactility (Silent T1).
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT F2 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your preferences in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a distinct sound signature and lightly textured feel, the F2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a medium-heavy switch that offers a tactile bump, padded bottom-out feel, and muted sound for noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you value typing experience, sound feedback, and key feel.
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