Dareu Holly vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Holly and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Holly stands out with its medium 50g actuation force, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements. On the other hand, the Silent T1 is ideal for those looking for a tactile and silenced switch, perfect for noise-sensitive environments, offering a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. If you prefer a mix of chirpy and clacky sounds, the Holly may be the way to go, while the Silent T1 would be more suitable if you want a quieter 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
50g
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
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Holly and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, both switches produce a clear and resonant sound that is especially ideal for those who enjoy a more defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches.
In contrast, the Holly utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characterized by its softer plastic composition. The nylon material in the bottom housing of the Holly switch absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also features a nylon bottom housing, providing similar qualities such as a deeper and fuller sound profile that creates a unique typing experience compared to switches with different bottom housing materials.
Overall, while both switches share a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a defined and resonant sound profile, they differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Dareu Holly's nylon bottom housing offers a softer typing experience with a deeper sound profile, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s nylon bottom housing provides a similar typing experience with its own unique sound characteristics. These variations in housing materials ultimately impact the overall feel and sound of each switch, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Holly switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is heavier at 67 grams, compared to the Holly switch which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. When considering weight, it is important to note that some users may prefer a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer a heavier force for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users can expect a similar experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. The travel distance being equal in both switches ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of tactile feedback and keypress distance. This makes them a great choice for those looking for a specific travel distance in their mechanical keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 Dareu Holly tactile switch is known for its chirpy and clacky elements, creating a unique and balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a more muted sound profile, perfect for noise-sensitive environments. While the Holly switch stands out with its distinctive sound signature, the Silent T1 provides a quieter typing experience without sacrificing tactile feedback. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch with a bit more personality in sound, the Holly would be the way to go, but if you prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be the better choice.
When it comes to feel, the information provided for the Holly switch is unknown. However, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is described as having a stepped, accented, and polished feel. This means that it offers a tactile typing experience with distinct stages, medium tactility, and smooth key travel. If you enjoy feeling a well-defined bump while typing but also appreciate a smooth and refined keystroke, the Silent T1 would be a great option to consider.
Taking all the available information into account, the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Holly provides a unique chirpy and clacky sound, catering to users looking for a balanced typing experience, while the Silent T1 offers a quieter experience with a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel. If you prioritize sound personality, the Holly is the way to go, whereas if you value a quieter typing experience and well-defined tactility, the Silent T1 would be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer great options depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a unique and balanced typing experience with a distinctive sound profile, the Dareu Holly tactile switch with its medium 50g actuation force would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are in need of a tactile and silenced switch for noise-sensitive environments, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing environment to ensure that you find the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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