TTC Iron vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch stand out as popular options with their unique features. The TTC Iron is renowned for its pronounced clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each press. Its light actuation and smooth travel make it an excellent choice for those seeking precision and comfort during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the go-to switch for individuals looking for a tactile option with noise-reducing properties, making it perfect for quiet environments. With a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, this switch offers a different typing experience compared to the TTC Iron. 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
41g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The TTC Iron and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Iron's POM top and bottom housings create a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Silent T1's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In contrast, the Silent T1's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Iron's POM bottom housing. Despite these differences, both switches provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Silent T1 allows for a translucent appearance that is ideal for RGB lighting. In comparison, the Iron's POM top housing does not offer the same level of transparency. However, both materials contribute to a pleasing sound experience, with POM creating a unique sound profile and polycarbonate providing a clearer and resonant sound. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 offers a classic feel and sound that differs from the POM bottom housing of the Iron, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder sound profile.
Overall, while the housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ in terms of their sound profiles and aesthetics, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience. Whether you prefer the deeper and muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, there is a switch to cater to your preferences. Additionally, the choice between nylon and POM bottom housings allows for a varied typing experience, with nylon providing a fuller sound and POM creating a more unique sound profile. Ultimately, the differences between the housing materials of these switches offer users a range of options to suit their individual preferences.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Iron switch will require less force to activate a keypress, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 switch will provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, which may be preferred by individuals who like a stronger push feel. Both switches offer different strengths in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing feel should opt for the TTC Iron switch, while those seeking a heavier typing experience may lean towards the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that the Iron has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Silent T1's 4 mm. Both fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Iron leaning slightly towards the shallower end. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Iron due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Silent T1 with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 Iron linear switch is all about producing a pronounced and clacky noise that resonates with each key press, offering a sharp and satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a more muted and quieter typing experience, perfect for noise-sensitive environments where loud clacks are unwelcome. While the Iron switch offers a more lively and percussive sound, the Silent T1 switch ensures a subdued audio feedback, catering to those who prefer a more subtle typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is characterized by an easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses which makes typing effortless and comfortable. Its light actuation force reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, providing a smooth and low-impact typing feel. In comparison, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a stepped and accented tactile feedback, giving users a more textured typing experience with a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel. Its polished finish also contributes to a sleek and refined typing sensation.
Overall, while the TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, they both excel in providing an enjoyable typing experience. The Iron switch delivers a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, appealing to users seeking precision and swift typing, while the Silent T1 switch combines a muted sound with a stepped and accented tactile feel, catering to those looking for a quieter and more textured typing experience. Depending on personal preference and environment, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing satisfaction, ensuring that regardless of choice, users can expect a delightful typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a pronounced clacky sound, the Iron switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile switch with subdued audio feedback, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style, noise tolerance, and desired typing experience. Consider these factors carefully to find the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your overall typing satisfaction.
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