Gateron Ink Box Black vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Ink Box Black is a linear switch, known for its incredible smoothness and creamy feel. Its sound signature is often compared to the sound of a spray paint can being shaken. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch that offers both a tactile feel and a silenced operation, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. It provides a satisfying medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, with subdued audio feedback. While these general descriptions give a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, it is important to delve deeper to determine which switch is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Black and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ significantly, resulting in distinct sound profiles and aesthetics. The Ink Box Black's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly suitable for RGB lighting applications. Therefore, while both switches offer a higher-pitched sound, the Ink Box Black leans towards a clacky profile, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a sharper and clearer sound with potential for vibrant lighting effects.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Ink Box Black once again features its proprietary INK blend, which contributes to its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. Similar to the top housing, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) deviates by utilizing a nylon bottom housing material. Nylon is known to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a duller and rounder sound when compared to the Ink Box Black. This contrast allows users to choose between a more pronounced and clacky sound (Ink Box Black) or a deeper and fuller sound (Silent T1).
When both top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities of each housing material will impact different aspects of the switch's sound profile and feel. Pressing down on a switch will primarily highlight the characteristics of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key will be more influenced by the top housing. Therefore, even though there are differences in the housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of switch feel, as well as the sound produced when pressing and releasing keys, due to the shared INK blend between the top and bottom housings of the Ink Box Black.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Ink Box Black is lighter with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. This lighter weight may appeal to individuals who prefer a keyboard that allows for longer periods of typing or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an actuation force listed as unavailable grams, making it difficult to determine the exact comparison. However, its bottom out force is recorded as 67 grams, which is also considered medium-heavy. Therefore, both switches fall within the same weight range in terms of bottom out force, providing a similar typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the Gateron Ink Box Black can be considered the lighter option, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is slightly heavier.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we find that the Ink Box Black has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent T1 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Ink Box Black falls on the shallower end of the spectrum, offering a quicker and more responsive typing experience. This makes it a favored choice among gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent T1 provides a deeper and more substantial feel due to its longer travel distance. This is ideal for those who prefer a more deliberate and pronounced keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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
The Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is best known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel. It provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This is due to the switch being described as both silky and polished, indicating a switch with a smooth and refined finish. The sound signature of the Ink Box Black is described as clacky and high-pitched, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, similar to the sound of a spray paint can being shaken.
On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is perfect for those who desire a tactile and silenced switch. It offers a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Silent T1 switch is also described as stepped, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This provides a slightly different tactile experience compared to the Ink Box Black switch. In terms of sound, the Silent T1 is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. This makes it ideal for noise-sensitive environments.
Considering the available information, the Gateron Ink Box Black and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. If you prefer a linear switch with a sharp and snappy sound, along with an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Ink Box Black is a great choice. Alternatively, if you desire a tactile switch with a medium bump, a padded bottom-out feel, and a quieter sound, the Silent T1 is a suitable option. Both switches feature a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. It's important to note that the choice of board and keycaps can also influence the sound and feel of the switches. Ultimately, it's recommended to try out different switches to find the one that suits your personal preferences best.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth and creamy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, then the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches offer a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, giving your keystrokes a crisp and bright sound. Additionally, the Ink Box Blacks have a silky and polished feel, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that combines tactile feedback with noise reduction, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is the way to go. With a slightly lower bottom-out force and muted sound profile, this switch is perfect for noise-sensitive environments. The Silent T1 offers a stepped and accented feel, providing a mild tactility that strikes a balance between prominent and subtle feedback. Like the Ink Box Black, the Silent T1 also features a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, your choice depends on your preferences for typing experience, noise level, and feedback.
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