Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct characteristics for different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a linear switch, known for its budget-friendly nature and excellent performance. Typing on this switch results in a higher pitched clacky sound profile with a fairly bouncy feel. On the other hand, the Silent T1 combines the benefits of a tactile switch with a silenced experience, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. It offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. While these general descriptions give us an overview, it is important to dive deeper into the specific qualities of each switch to best decide which one suits your personal preferences. So, let's explore more to make an informed choice.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) housing materials, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more distinct auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be showcased, adding a visually appealing element to the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches incorporate nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer nature and ability to absorb sound, producing a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic adds to the overall typing experience, providing a satisfying auditory feedback to users.
Although the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, they both bring unique qualities to the overall sound and feel. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) may have variations in their housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel when utilizing these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is clear that both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in this aspect. However, the actuation force differs between the two. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, which is lighter compared to the Silent T1 (Shrimp) that has an unknown actuation force.
The lighter actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Yellow makes it more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. This allows them to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue or strain on their fingers. It is an ideal option for those who use a keyboard extensively for work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation force. Although the exact force required to trigger a keystroke for this switch is unknown, it can be assumed to be heavier than 50 grams. This heavier push feel appeals to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and a greater level of resistance when typing.
In conclusion, if one desires a lighter and more effortless typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow with its 50-gram actuation force would be the preferred choice. However, if a more substantial and resistance-filled typing experience is desired, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) with its unknown actuation force can provide similar results. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will offer a consistent and familiar feeling when pressing down on a key. Whether it's the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Silent T1 (Shrimp), users can expect a similar travel distance experience, ensuring a comfortable typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch provides a higher-pitched clacky sound profile. This means that when pressed, you can expect a sharp and crisp sound that may not have the rich and bassy qualities of other switches. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is known for its muted sound. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch offers a polished and creamy typing experience. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. It feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, with each keystroke being silky and smooth. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch provides a stepped and accented tactile feel. This means that it has a medium amount of tactility, providing a noticeable bump in the keystroke, but not to the extent of being overwhelming. It may also have some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving it a mild and distinct tactile sensation. Like the G Pro 3.0 Yellow, the Silent T1 may also feature a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and a polished, creamy feel. It is a budget-friendly option that excels in linear typing experiences. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a muted sound, a stepped and accented tactile feel, and is designed specifically for those who want a tactile and silenced switch. Both options have their unique advantages depending on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are seeking a budget-friendly linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is an excellent choice. It provides a high-pitched, resonant sound profile that may appeal to those who prefer a crisper and sharper auditory experience. The polished and creamy feel of this switch ensures a smooth and refined typing experience, allowing your fingers to effortlessly glide across the keys. On the other hand, if you desire a switch that offers both tactile feedback and noise reduction, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the perfect option. It features a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, providing a satisfying typing experience. Its muted sound profile ensures quieter operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Additionally, the stepped and accented feel of the Silent T1 adds a touch of tactility without overwhelming the typist. Ultimately, the choice between Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) depends on your preference for linear switches with a clacky sound and a bouncy feel, or tactile switches with a silenced operation and a muted sound.
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