TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are both popular choices for those seeking a tactile typing experience with unique characteristics. The Gold Brown Pro offers a subtle and nuanced feedback, allowing typists to stay focused with its gentle tactile bump and quiet sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent T1 provides a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, making it ideal for those in noise-sensitive environments who still want a tactile typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This means that both switches will have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for those looking to customize their switches with lighting effects.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Gold Brown Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound profile to the Gold Brown Pro.
Overall, while both switches may have differences in their bottom housing materials, the impact on sound and feel will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will have more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) will depend on personal preference for the specific sound profile desired during typing.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Silent T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Gold Brown Pro is unknown. The actuation force of the Gold Brown Pro provides a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier bottom out force of the Silent T1 offers a more substantial and robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Gold Brown Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Silent T1. The 3.8 mm travel distance of the Gold Brown Pro falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a suitable choice for those who prioritize fast response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Silent T1 provides a bit more depth and might be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 Gold Brown Pro offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that is neutral, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience without being too loud. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a muted sound that minimizes noise, making it ideal for quiet environments where noise is a concern. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Gold Brown Pro having a more substantial and deep sound, while the Silent T1 produces a softer and quieter typing noise.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is polished and silky, offering a smooth typing experience with a mild and subtle tactile feedback. It also features a stepped feel, providing a two-stage tactile sensation that is gentle and approachable to most users. Conversely, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) also offers a stepped feel but adds an accented touch to its tactility, providing a medium amount of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. Both switches are polished for smooth key travel, but the Silent T1 offers a more prominent tactile response compared to the subtle feedback of the Gold Brown Pro.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both belong to the tactile switch category, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Gold Brown Pro offers a deep and neutral sound with a polished and subtle typing experience, ideal for those who seek a refined tactile feedback without loud keypresses. In contrast, the Silent T1 provides a muted sound profile with an accented tactile feel, perfect for users who prioritize a silenced typing experience with a medium level of tactile feedback. Depending on your preference for sound and tactility, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to specific typing preferences, ensuring a tailored typing experience tailored to your individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switches, consider the following factors. If you prefer a subtle tactile feedback and a quiet typing experience, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is the way to go. It provides a polished, silky feel with a low-pitched thocky sound profile, making it ideal for those who seek a refined typing experience without unnecessary distractions. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers both tactile feedback and noise reduction, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the better choice. With an accented, stepped feel and a muted sound profile, this switch is perfect for noise-sensitive environments where a medium-heavy bottom out force is preferred. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and the level of tactility you desire in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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