TTC Honey vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Honey and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The TTC Honey is renowned for its smooth and creamy feel, providing a frictionless typing experience. Additionally, these switches emit a satisfying deep sound profile, adding to the overall typing pleasure. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is ideal for individuals seeking both a tactile and silenced switch. This makes it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. With a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, the Silent T1 offers a satisfying typing experience without disturbing those around you. However, let's explore these switches further to help you determine the best fit for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Honey and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, creating a clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, making it useful for those who want customizable lighting options. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual effects when using either switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the TTC Honey and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ in their choice of materials. The Honey employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, equally contributing to the overall sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. As a result, typing on the Silent T1 (Shrimp) with its nylon bottom housing may provide a different typing experience compared to the Honey with its polycarbonate bottom housing.
Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, the impact on the overall typing experience may be more noticeable on the bottom-out sound and feel. The qualities brought by the bottom housing material will be predominantly felt when pressing down on the switch. This means that while the two switches may produce different bottom-out sounds, the experience of typing itself might not greatly differ. On the other hand, the top housing material will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect variations in the sound produced when letting go of a key between the Honey and the Silent T1 (Shrimp), as they have different top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that there are some notable differences. The Honey switch boasts a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams, making it a favorable choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is currently unknown, thus making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Honey switch requires 50 grams of force, whereas the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch requires a heavier 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.
Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and desired typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch that requires less force would find the Honey switch to be ideal, as it allows for extended typing periods without causing fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who appreciate a more substantial and substantial typing feel may lean towards the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch, with its heavier bottom out force providing a more satisfying key press. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that the Honey has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Silent T1 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the Silent T1 falls within the average range of 4.0 mm, whereas the Honey offers a slightly shallower experience. This can be advantageous for gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter travel distances are often favored for their increased responsiveness. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Honey's shorter travel distance to be too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and whether one prioritizes speed or a deeper key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 TTC Honey linear switch offers a deep and pleasant sound profile with a subtle and dampened sound when pressed. While it is not completely silent, it provides a more subdued and subtle sound compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is described as offering a muted sound. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches provide a quieter typing experience, but the Honey has a deeper and more pleasant sound while the Silent T1 has a softer and quieter sound.
In terms of feel, the TTC Honey linear switch is best described as providing a smooth and creamy typing experience. This is due to having lubricant applied in the switch at the factory and specific materials used. Typing on the Honey switch feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, resulting in a silky sensation. Additionally, it is frictionless and offers a fluid travel, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as having a stepped and accented feel. This means that it offers a medium bump, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is not as smooth or creamy as the Honey switch, but still provides a satisfying and tactile typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, the TTC Honey linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Honey switch provides a deeper and more pleasant sound, while the Silent T1 switch offers a softer and quieter sound. When it comes to feel, the Honey switch offers a smooth, frictionless, and buttery typing experience, while the Silent T1 switch provides a stepped and accented tactile feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can offer satisfying typing experiences. It is important to note that the sound and feel of switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light switch with a smooth and creamy feel, the TTC Honey linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a light and effortless typing experience. The Honey is best known for its smooth and creamy typing sensation, offering a frictionless and buttery feel. It also has a deep and pleasant sound profile, described as subdued, making it suitable for shared spaces. While not completely silent, the Honey offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a tactile and silenced experience, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch would be the better option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, the Silent T1 offers a satisfying tactile bump while maintaining a padded bottom-out feel. It is perfect for noise-sensitive environments as it provides a muted sound, significantly reducing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. The Silent T1 is described as having a stepped or accented tactile feel, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It also features a polished switch finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a light and smooth typing experience with a subtle sound, go for the Honey linear switch. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a tactile and silenced typing experience, choose the Silent T1. Consider your typing style, noise preference, and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard to make the best decision for your needs.
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