Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both offering a tactile typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is praised for its exceptional quality and affordability, providing a gentle bump that enhances typing flow without overpowering it. Additionally, its frosted light diffuser ensures vibrant RGB lighting, creating a visually immersive experience. With a medium-high pitch that delivers satisfying auditory feedback, typing becomes a joyous affair. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) caters to those seeking a tactile and silenced switch, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. With its medium bump, cushioned bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, this switch allows for quiet and comfortable typing sessions. However, beyond these generalities, let's dive deeper to help you make the best switch choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both feature polycarbonate top housings. This means that they will provide similar benefits in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is ideal for those who prefer a more distinct and resonant typing experience. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it perfect for RGB lighting enthusiasts, as it allows for a beautiful illumination effect.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder typewriter-like sound. The nylon bottom housing of both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) will contribute to creating a satisfying and immersive typing experience, adding a sense of depth and richness to each keystroke.
Despite featuring the same housing materials, it's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch have different impacts on the overall typing experience. When pressing down on either switch, you will primarily feel the qualities of the bottom housing, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, although the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) may have similar housing materials, slight variations in their design and construction can still result in unique nuances and preferences for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are some noticeable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the actuation force for the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is unavailable. However, both switches have a medium level of actuation force, meaning they require a moderate amount of force to trigger a keystroke. Moving on to the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a bottom out force of 63 grams, which is again medium. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier than the G Pro 3.0 Brown. This indicates that the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a more substantial typing experience, as it requires a bit more force to fully press down. Overall, for those who prefer a lighter touch and the ability to type for longer periods, the G Pro 3.0 Brown would be a suitable choice. However, for individuals who prefer a stronger and more substantial typing feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be the better option.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance traveled for both switches. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the feeling and experience of pressing down on keys with both switches. Both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying travel distance, ensuring a smooth typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Brown for $2.77.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a medium-high pitch that delivers a satisfying auditory feedback. Although the specific sound descriptor is not mentioned in the provided information, it can be inferred that the G Pro Brown switch produces a moderately loud and crisp sound. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as muted. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch. The Silent T1 is designed for noise-sensitive environments, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more silent typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch provides an easy-to-press experience. These switches offer a gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. The light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Brown switch is described as mild, meaning it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone, providing a comfortable and approachable feel.
On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as stepped, which means it feels like it has two stages. Stepped switches offer a more mild tactile feedback compared to hypertactile switches. Users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, enhancing the typing experience. The Silent T1 is also described as accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Additionally, the Silent T1 switch is mentioned to be polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This translates to reduced friction and a sleek typing experience, possibly due to factory lubing or high-quality materials.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switch offers a satisfying auditory feedback with its medium-high pitch, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch provides a muted sound. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers an easy-to-press experience with a mild typing feel. The Silent T1 provides a stepped feel with prominent tactility and a polished finish. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a tactile experience with a louder sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Durock Silent T1 would be an excellent option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for an economical and high-quality option, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch is a great choice. It offers a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, allowing for a gentle bump that won't interrupt your typing flow. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser enhances your RGB lighting, providing an immersive visual experience. The G Pro 3.0 Brown also has a medium-high pitch that adds satisfaction to your typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize a silent typing experience and are in a noise-sensitive environment, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is ideal. It offers a padded bottom-out feel and subdued audio feedback, ensuring a quieter typing experience. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) also provides a medium bump, giving you tactile feedback without being overwhelming. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on your preferences for sound and feel, as well as your specific typing environment.
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