TTC Flaming Purple vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. The Flaming Purple stands out for its resonant character, bassier sound signature, and feathery feel, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a unique combination of tactile feedback and silenced operation, perfect for those in noise-sensitive environments. 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Flaming Purple and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. In terms of sound, users can expect similar results from both switches when it comes to the top housing material.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the TTC Flaming Purple features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides similar qualities in terms of sound profile. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will result in a more substantial sound experience compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings.
The differences in housing materials between the TTC Flaming Purple and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) lie in the bottom housing material, as both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing. While the top housing material primarily affects the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing material has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Therefore, users can expect a sharper sound profile with a crisper sound from the polycarbonate top housing of both switches, while the nylon bottom housing will provide a deeper and fuller sound experience, resulting in a more rounded sound profile overall.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we see a clear difference in weight. The Flaming Purple has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, though its actuation force is unknown. This makes the Flaming Purple ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) suits individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on the user's preference.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Flaming Purple offers a slightly quicker keypress due to its shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent T1 provides a bit more depth to the keystroke, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to individual preference in choosing the right switch for your needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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 TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a resonant and engaging auditory experience with a poppy undertone. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a more muted and subdued audio feedback, ideal for noise-sensitive environments. The Flaming Purple's sound is characterized by a deeper and richer tone, while the Silent T1 provides a softer and quieter typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Flaming Purple offers a feathery and easy-to-press typing experience, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and enhances comfort during extended typing sessions. It is also described as silky, providing a smooth and responsive feel when typing. In comparison, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a stepped and accented tactile feel, offering a medium bump and an overall polished typing experience. The stepped nature of the switch provides a two-stage tactile feedback, allowing for a more controlled and nuanced typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch excels in providing a resonant and engaging sound profile with a feathery and easy-to-press typing feel, making it a great choice for enthusiasts and daily typists. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a more muted sound profile and a stepped tactile feel, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience with a medium bump. Both switches have their own unique qualities, and the choice between them ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In summarizing your choice between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a light, feathery switch with a poppy undertone and easy-to-press actuation, the Flaming Purple is a great option for swift and effortless typing. On the other hand, if you value a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and muted sound for noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a tactile and silenced switch experience. Consider the sound profile and typing feel that best suits your preferences and needs when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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