PH Studio Jacaranda vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Jacaranda and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer unique features for different preferences. The Jacaranda, a linear switch, is lauded for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force that promotes comfortable typing without inducing fatigue. Its clacky sound signature and bouncy sensation from the extended 22mm spring provide a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp), a tactile switch, caters to those seeking a combination of tactile feedback and noise reduction, making it suitable for quiet environments. With a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and muted audio feedback, the Silent T1 appeals to users looking for a polished typing experience. While these general pointers can help guide your decision, further exploration is necessary to determine the best switch for your specific needs. 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
39g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
While both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) feature polycarbonate top housings that produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, they differ when it comes to their bottom housings. The Jacaranda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound, which contrasts with the more resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar deep and full sound experience when typing on the switches.
When it comes to the overall feel and sound of the switches, the differences in housing materials play a significant role. The bottom housing of a switch has a more direct impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. In the case of the Jacaranda, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a softer and more absorbing feel, while the polycarbonate top housing enhances the release sound of a key. Similarly, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a similar typing experience with its nylon bottom housing absorbing sound and its polycarbonate top housing producing a clear and resonant sound profile when releasing a key.
In conclusion, both the PH Studio Jacaranda and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. While the polycarbonate top housings provide a sharp and crisp sound, the nylon bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound experience. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for a balanced typing experience, where the impact of each material can be felt and heard throughout the keypress. Whether using the Jacaranda with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing, or the Silent T1 (Shrimp) with the same combination, users can expect a blend of qualities that enhance the overall typing feel and sound of the switches.
Weight
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch features a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial push feel for users seeking a more pronounced typing feedback. While the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is not specified, the heavier bottom out force suggests that it may require a considerable amount of force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Jacaranda. Ultimately, individuals looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Jacaranda, while those desiring a heavier push feel may find the Silent T1 (Shrimp) more suitable.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Jacaranda switch would provide a quicker response time for gamers looking for speed and agility. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of popular travel distances and will provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a clacky, high-pitched, and resonant profile, providing a sharp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a muted sound, perfect for noise-sensitive environments where a quieter typing experience is desired. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Jacaranda leaning towards a crisp, bright feedback and the Silent T1 delivering a softer and quieter sound.
Moving on to feel, the Jacaranda switch is known for its silky smooth typing experience, offering minimal resistance and creating a seamless keystroke sensation. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished, providing a tactile experience with a medium bump, a refined feel, and enhanced tactile feedback. While the Jacaranda focuses on smoothness and ease of typing, the Silent T1 targets users looking for a tactile switch with a distinct bump and enhanced tactility.
Overall, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Jacaranda excels in providing a bouncy and easy-on-the-fingers typing experience with a clacky sound profile, while the Silent T1 stands out for its combination of tactile feedback and muted sound, creating a comfortable and noise-sensitive-friendly typing environment. Depending on your desired typing experience, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your overall mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider the following. If you prefer a light bottom-out force and a bouncy sensation with a clacky sound profile, the Jacaranda may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy bottom-out force, tactile feedback with a muted sound profile ideal for noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience, sound profile, and bottom-out force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and environment to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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