Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Two popular choices are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The G Pro 3.0 Silver, a linear switch, is highly regarded for its exceptional gaming performance. With its shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, this switch delivers lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive edge. Additionally, the G Pro Silver switches feature vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch that adds an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch that is perfect for individuals who desire both a tactile feel and a silent typing experience. Designed for noise-sensitive environments, this switch offers a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel while delivering subdued audio feedback. Both switches have their own merits, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you make the best switch choice for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This results in a similar sound profile characterized by sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper tones. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for the effective utilization of RGB lighting, making it visually appealing for those who prefer illuminated keyboards.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches utilize nylon. Nylon offers a classic and widely-used housing material that enhances the sound experience. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing brings about a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with both the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) thanks to their nylon bottom housing.
Although both switches have similar housing materials, the distribution of these materials is different. The qualities of the bottom housing material are significant when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel, as this is where the impact is felt the most. On the other hand, the top housing's material will have a more noticeable impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding the influence of each housing material in different aspects of the typing experience allows users to make an informed decision based on their preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) share similarities in their housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, offering a sharp and crisp sound profile and the advantage of RGB lighting compatibility. Additionally, they both feature a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. However, it's essential to consider the distribution of these materials and their influence on the bottom-out sound and key release sound. By understanding these differences, users can choose the switch that aligns with their desired typing experience.
Weight
When it comes to the actuation force and bottom out force, there is a notable difference between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for quick and effortless keystrokes. Its bottom out force of 50 grams ensures a comfortable typing experience without requiring excessive pressure. In contrast, the exact actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is unavailable, but it is known to have a bottom out force of 67 grams, suggesting a medium-heavy tactile experience. This implies that the Silent T1 (Shrimp) requires a stronger push to trigger keystrokes and provides a more substantial typing feel. If you prefer a lighter switch, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be a suitable choice, enabling long typing or gaming sessions with ease. However, if you prefer a heavier and more tactile experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be a better option.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver 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 with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile experience when using both of these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 Silver linear switch offers a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. The deeper and richer bass tones during key presses create a satisfying audio experience. This switch provides a mellow and bass-heavy tone that enhances the overall auditory element of gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is described as muted. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is described as buttery and creamy. This indicates a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The switch provides a silky feeling, allowing your fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a stepped, accented, and polished feel. It offers a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The switch has a refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, while providing a buttery and creamy typing experience. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a muted sound and a stepped, accented, and polished feel. If you are seeking a deep, rich sound profile and a smooth typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet sound and a medium tactile feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be a better option. Keep in mind that the sound and feel can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that provides a lightning-fast gaming experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver is the switch for you. With its lighter bottom out force and shorter travel distance, these switches offer exceptional responsiveness and give you a competitive edge in gaming. Additionally, the vibrant RGB lighting and medium-high pitch add an exciting visual and auditory element to your gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prioritize a tactile typing experience in a noise-sensitive environment, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the ideal choice. With its medium-heavy bottom out force and muted sound, these switches offer a satisfying tactile bump while minimizing the noise associated with mechanical keyboards. Whether you prefer the buttery and creamy feel of the G Pro 3.0 Silver or the stepped, accented, and polished feel of the Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal preferences and specific needs in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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