TTC Ice vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user. The TTC Ice switch, known for its stunning crystal-clear transparent design, offers a smooth and linear typing experience that caters to both gamers and typists seeking a premium feel. Its responsive action and satisfying bottom-out sound make it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a straightforward and uninterrupted keystroke. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a tactile experience with a medium bump, specifically designed for noise-sensitive environments. This switch combines a comfortable tactile feedback with a muted audio response, making it an excellent option for users who prefer a more discreet typing experience. Each switch serves distinct needs—whether it's the smooth, seamless action of the Ice or the tactile assurance of the Silent T1. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Ice and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in similar sound profiles characterized by sharpness, clarity, and a high-pitch resonance. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a crisper sound when the keys are engaged. This consistency in material choice not only provides a clear auditory experience but also enhances the visual appeal of the switches, especially in setups that feature RGB lighting. With both switches adopting a translucent polycarbonate design, enthusiasts will enjoy vibrant lighting effects that can be showcased beautifully through the top housing, unifying functionality with aesthetics.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the TTC Ice and the Silent T1 differ significantly, with the Ice employing polycarbonate while the Silent T1 utilizes nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Ice maintains a higher-pitched auditory characteristic, mirroring the sound profile of the top housing. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 contributes a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound. This dichotomy in materials means that when the keys are pressed, the TTC Ice will produce a sound more aligned with the sharper notes of the polycarbonate, while the Silent T1 will deliver a rounder, more muted auditory effect, enriching the typing experience in different ways.
When comparing the two switches as a whole, the combination of materials leads to distinct outcomes in sound and feel. The Ice, with its uniform polycarbonate construction, provides a consistent auditory feedback aligned with a high-pitched tone, ideal for those who favor sharper keypresses. In contrast, the Silent T1's unique pairing of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom offers a blend of high-pitched resonance from the top while softening the sound impact with the nylon bottom housing. This interplay means that users will experience dynamic auditory properties that change based on which part of the key press they are engaged with, confirming that the dichotomy of materials results in varied typing experiences while maintaining quality sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Ice linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The TTC Ice features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a moderately weighted option. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1, while lacking a specified actuation force, has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This implies that while the Ice is the lighter switch overall, the Silent T1 will provide a firmer feel during the typing experience, appealing to those who prefer more resistance. Since the actuation force for the Silent T1 is unknown, it's difficult to determine how it compares directly at that threshold. Nonetheless, users seeking a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the heavier feel of the Silent T1, while those looking for an easier keystroke with less fatigue might prefer the lighter TTC Ice switch.
Travel distance
The TTC Ice linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch exhibit differing travel distances, which can significantly impact the typing experience. The TTC Ice has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Durock Silent T1 measures 4 mm. For those who favor shorter travel distances, the Ice switch may provide a more responsive feel, catering especially to gamers seeking quicker actuation. Conversely, the Silent T1's longer travel distance offers a more substantial experience, which some typists may find more satisfying and less abrupt. Thus, individuals' preferences will greatly determine which switch is more suited for their needs, with the Ice providing a snappier response and the Silent T1 delivering a deeper keypress experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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 Ice switch delivers a satisfying bottom-out noise that is pleasant without becoming distracting, making it well-suited for both gaming and general use. Its crystal-clear design adds an aesthetic flair that complements the auditory feedback, providing an engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is engineered for quiet operation, featuring muted sound characteristics that considerably reduce noise levels compared to traditional switches. This makes the Silent T1 an excellent choice for users in noise-sensitive environments, as it minimizes the usual clack of mechanical keys, allowing for a more discreet typing experience.
In terms of feel, the TTC Ice switch offers a smooth and responsive experience that many users find enjoyable. It excels in its linear mechanics, allowing for an uninterrupted keypress without significant tactile feedback. The smoothness of this switch can provide a sense of fluidity during both gaming and typing tasks. Meanwhile, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) boasts a more complex tactile profile with its medium bump and stepped design. This switch offers a notable tactile feedback that occurs in distinct stages, making it easier for typists to perceive key actuation without feeling overwhelmed. The tactile response is accentuated, yet polished, providing a refined and comfortable typing experience, showcasing both tactility and smoothness.
In conclusion, while the TTC Ice switch and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) cater to different preferences, they both offer appealing attributes. The Ice focuses on a smooth, responsive experience with satisfying sound, perfect for a variety of users. On the other hand, the Silent T1 combines a muted operation with a tactically rich feel, making it ideal for quieter settings. Depending on your needs—whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both—you’ll find that each switch offers a distinct yet enjoyable typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your specific needs and preferences in both typing feel and sound profile. If you prioritize a smooth, responsive experience and appreciate a more pronounced bottom-out sound, the TTC Ice switch is an excellent choice, especially for gaming or general typing where rapid keystrokes are essential. Its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams makes it versatile enough for extended use without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you find yourself in a noise-sensitive environment or simply prefer a quieter typing experience, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is your go-to option. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 67 grams, it provides a satisfying tactile bump without the disruptive noise typically associated with mechanical typing. This switch's stepped tactile feedback ensures that you can enjoy a controlled and comfortable key press without overwhelming that auditory silence you may desire. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches hinges on whether you value a smooth linear action or a tactile, muted experience—each designed to cater to different typing styles and environments.
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