TTC Gold Silver vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it's clear that each has its own set of unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Gold Silver is celebrated for its rapid responsiveness and precise bottom-out, accompanied by a resonant sound signature that signifies quick action. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a tactile experience with a medium bump and a quieter operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Silent T1 provides a tactile and silenced 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
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
The TTC Gold Silver and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in these switches creates a resonant sound due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gold Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that contribute to a sharp and clear sound profile, the Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller typing experience compared to the Silent T1 (Shrimp). The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the sound and feel of pressing down on the switches, with the bottom housing playing a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel. Although the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when a key is released, the combination of materials in each switch offers a unique typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of each switch. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharp and resonant sound, the difference in bottom housing material sets them apart. The Gold Silver's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s nylon bottom housing offers a duller and rounder sound. Whether you prefer a sharper or deeper sound profile, the choice of housing material in these switches will ultimately impact your typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Gold Silver linear 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 Silver is unknown. The weight of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard, as a lighter actuation force may be more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while a heavier bottom out force may provide a more substantial typing experience. In this case, those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Gold Silver, while those who prefer a heavier bottom out force may prefer the Silent T1. Both switches offer different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that the Gold Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Silent T1's 4 mm. The Gold Silver provides a slightly shallower key press, which may be preferred by individuals looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a slightly deeper key press, which may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4 mm being the standard. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for the depth of key press and desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver 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 Silver 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep and rich auditory experience with each keystroke. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a muted sound, perfect for noise-sensitive environments where a quieter typing experience is desired. While the Gold Silver provides a resonant and satisfying sound with a swift action, the Silent T1 offers a softer and more subdued audio feedback that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
In terms of feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch boasts a polished and silky typing experience, with a mild and subtle resistance that enhances smoothness and reduces friction during keystrokes. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a stepped and accented tactile feel, ensuring a medium bump with an enhanced typing experience. Both switches offer a refined and sleek typing experience, but the Gold Silver leans towards a smoother and more polished feel, while the Silent T1 focuses on a tactile experience with prominent tactility.
Overall, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch excels in providing a rapid and precise typing experience with a thocky sound signature, perfect for those seeking speed and fluidity in every keystroke. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a tactile and silenced typing experience, ideal for noise-sensitive environments where a quieter switch is necessary. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches cater to different typing experiences, ensuring a high-quality performance in their respective categories. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches would depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a quiet and tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Silver linear switch or the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and needs as a keyboard user. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, smooth keystrokes, and a resonant sound signature, the Gold Silver may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a tactile bump, quiet operation, and a padded bottom-out feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be the better option. Additionally, if you are in a noise-sensitive environment or prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so be sure to consider what matters most to you when making your decision.
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