TTC Flame Red vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices to consider are the TTC Flame Red and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Flame Red switches are known for their visual appeal, especially with their dazzling light diffuser, making them the perfect choice for those who prefer backlit, RGB keyboards. Typing on these switches provides a weighty smoothness, accompanied by a satisfying clacky sound profile. Categorized as 'Neutral, 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Flame Reds offer a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches are designed for those who desire both a tactile and silenced switch, making them suitable for noise-sensitive environments. With a medium bump, a padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, the Silent T1 delivers a satisfying typing experience. Categorized as 'Stepped', 'Accented', 'Muted', and 'Polished', these switches are ideal for those seeking a quieter mechanical keyboard. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine which switch would be the best fit for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
54g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Flame Red and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) have distinct differences in their housing materials. The Flame Red features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material is softer, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Flame Red and Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilize nylon. This common material choice for switch housing also leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Similar to the nylon top housing, the softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, despite the difference in top housing materials, the two switches share similar sound qualities when it comes to their bottom-out sound and feel.
The differing top housing materials have a significant impact on the sound when releasing a key. With the Flame Red's nylon top housing, the softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound upon key release. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) promotes a clearer and more resonant sound when letting go of a key. These contrasting qualities highlight the importance of the top housing material in shaping the sound profile of a switch.
In summary, while the Flame Red and Silent T1 (Shrimp) share similarities in their nylon bottom housing, their top housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The Flame Red's nylon top housing absorbs sound, creating a deeper and duller sound, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches provide a deep and full sound experience due to their nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the preference for a softer and rounder sound or a sharper and clearer sound.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that there are differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light touch to trigger a keystroke, while its bottom out force is slightly heavier at 54 grams. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch has an undisclosed actuation force, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, its bottom out force is noticeably heavier at 67 grams, offering a medium-heavy typing experience.
Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force to enable longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. For these users, the Flame Red would be a suitable choice with its medium-light actuation force. It allows for effortless keystrokes, reducing the strain on the fingers and wrists. Alternatively, others prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy the stronger push feel that comes with a heavier actuation force. In this case, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch would be the preferable option due to its undisclosed actuation force, which is potentially heavier than that of the Flame Red.
In terms of bottom out force, both switches offer a moderate range. The Flame Red's bottom out force of 54 grams provides a satisfying response without too much resistance, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch boasts a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, which may appeal to users seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback and a firm key press.
Overall, while the Flame Red is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Silent T1 (Shrimp), the specific actuation force of the Silent T1 is unknown, making it difficult to draw a precise comparison between the two. However, both switches offer a moderate bottom out force, catering to different preferences in terms of typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same 4 mm distance as the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying travel distance, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 Flame Red switch offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile and audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is specifically designed for noise-sensitive environments, providing a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. While the Flame Red switch has a neutral sound profile, the Silent T1 switch is described as producing a softer and quieter sound due to its muted characteristics.
In terms of feel, the Flame Red switch offers a mild typing experience with a safe, middle-ground zone. It provides a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, its polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Silent T1 switch has a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages in its tactile feedback. It offers a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Like the Flame Red switch, it also features a polished finish for a sleek typing experience.
Although the Flame Red and Silent T1 switches have different sound and feel characteristics, both offer unique qualities that suit different preferences and environments. The Flame Red is best suited for those who prefer a tactile and clacky typing experience, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Its visuals, specifically the dazzling light diffuser, make it an excellent choice for backlit, RGB keyboards. On the other hand, the Silent T1 switch is perfect for individuals in noise-sensitive environments who desire a tactile switch with subdued audio feedback. Its medium bump and padded bottom-out feel provide a comfortable typing experience while minimizing noise.
Overall, both switches have their strengths and cater to different needs. If you enjoy the sound and feel of the Flame Red but require a quieter typing experience, similar results can be achieved by using the Silent T1 switch. Conversely, if you prefer the silenced properties of the Silent T1 switch but desire a more tactile and clacky typing experience, the Flame Red switch can be a suitable alternative. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a backlit, RGB keyboard and prefer a weighty smoothness with a clacky sound profile, the TTC Flame Red linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. Its dazzling light diffuser makes it the perfect match for visual enthusiasts. On the other hand, if you value a tactile and silenced switch, particularly in noise-sensitive environments, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is the way to go. With its medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, it provides the ideal combination for a satisfying typing experience. In terms of sound, the Flame Red offers a neutral profile suitable for a variety of purposes, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) produces a softer and quieter sound with its muted characteristics. As for feel, the Flame Red offers a mild and polished typing experience, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) delivers a stepped and accented feel alongside its polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preferences and priorities in terms of visuals, sound, and feel.
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