Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available to suit different preferences and needs. Two popular switches that stand out among the rest are the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Ink Box Pink is a linear switch, known for its smoothness and lighter typing feel. It produces a higher-pitched clack, which some users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Silent T1 is a tactile switch that offers a balanced combination of tactility and silence. It features a medium bump for tactile feedback and a padded bottom-out feel. This switch is especially ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While these general descriptions provide a helpful overview, let's delve deeper into the characteristics of each switch to empower you to make the best choice based on your personal preferences and requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), it is clear that they have distinct differences. The Ink Box Pink utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, which results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This creates a satisfying, yet not overly sharp, clacky sound. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Aesthetically, both switches offer clear housings, making them suitable for RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ink Box Pink again employs its proprietary INK blend, resulting in a similar pointed and high-pitched sound profile. The sound is described as clacky, which is satisfying for many users. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material brings a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. These differences in bottom housing material contribute to distinct sound profiles when typing on the switches.
It is important to note that if the top and bottom housings are different for a switch, the qualities of each housing material will have their own impact. Pressing down on these switches will primarily exhibit the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Overall, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) have differences in their housing materials, both switches offer unique and satisfying sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Ink Box Pink has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it fall under the medium category. In contrast, the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is currently unavailable, so it is unknown how light or heavy the force required to trigger a keystroke is. However, the Silent T1 does have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which places it in the medium-heavy range.
Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter switch may lean towards the Gateron Ink Box Pink. A lighter actuation force can allow for extended typing periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more robust and substantial typing experience may prefer a switch with a heavier force. In this case, the Silent T1 with its medium-heavy bottom out force may be a suitable choice.
While the specific actuation force of the Silent T1 is unknown, it can be surmised that it falls within a similar range to the Ink Box Pink, as both switches are categorized as medium. Consequently, individuals seeking similar results in terms of actuation force could opt for either switch.
To summarize, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a lighter actuation force and a slightly lighter bottom out force compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which possesses a medium actuation force and a medium-heavy bottom out force. Choosing between them depends on personal preferences for typing experience and the desired duration of typing sessions.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Silent T1 falls within the more common range of 4.0 mm, while the Ink Box Pink offers a slightly shorter travel distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times often prefer switches with shorter travel distances, like the Ink Box Pink. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deeper feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Silent T1 with its longer travel distance. It is important to consider personal preferences and requirements when choosing between these switches to ensure the best typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Pink 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 Pink 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 Pink linear switch is best known for its smooth and light typing feel. When using these switches, you'll notice a higher-pitched clack sound. These switches produce a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is perfect for those who want a tactile and silenced switch. It offers a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel. The sound produced by the Silent T1 is muted and quieter compared to regular or clacky switches.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience. It can be described as silky and polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Silent T1, on the other hand, offers a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback. It provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making it accented. Both switches also have a polished finish, contributing to their sleek typing experiences.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Box Pink provides a higher-pitched and clacky sound, while the Silent T1 offers a muted and quieter sound. When it comes to feel, the Ink Box Pink is silky and polished, providing a smooth typing experience with reduced resistance. The Silent T1, on the other hand, has a stepped and accented feel, providing a medium level of tactility. While the switches differ in their specific qualities, both provide desirable characteristics for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can offer a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and lighter typing feel, with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bump, a padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch would be the better option.
If you prioritize a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when typing, the Ink Box Pink's clacky and high-pitched sound profile would be a better fit for you. However, if you are in a noise-sensitive environment and prefer a softer and quieter typing experience, the Silent T1's muted sound would be more suitable.
In terms of feel, the Ink Box Pink offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced resistance, thanks to its silky and polished finish. On the other hand, the Silent T1 provides a stepped tactile feel with a medium amount of accented tactility. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in smoother key travel and reduced friction.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch depends on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and switch behavior. Consider your priorities and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard to make the best decision for your needs.
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