Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to consider their unique features and qualities. The Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that offers a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight, making it a reliable choice for those who appreciate tradition mixed with innovation. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is also a tactile switch but stands out for its silent operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While the Jupiter Brown is known for its high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Silent T1 offers a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Spring steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this similarity in their top housing material, the unique design and construction of each switch may still result in slight differences in sound and feel.
A significant difference between the two switches lies in the material used for the bottom housing. The Jupiter Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also features a nylon bottom housing, meaning that both switches share this quality in their bottom housing material. This similarity suggests that despite any variations in design, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
When considering how the qualities of the housing materials impact the overall typing experience, it is important to recognize how each component contributes to the sound profile. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. By understanding how these materials interact and affect sound production, users can better appreciate the intricate design and engineering that goes into creating a satisfying typing experience with switches like the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp).
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that the Jupiter Brown is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an unknown actuation force. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Jupiter Brown requiring 70 grams and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) needing 67 grams to bottom out. The Jupiter Brown offers a slightly lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a slightly heavier feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar tactile feedback and keypress experience from both switches. With the same travel distance, typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches will result in a consistent feel and performance. Overall, whether you choose the Gateron Jupiter Brown or the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), you can expect a similar level of keypress travel distance when using either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer different auditory experiences. The Jupiter Brown switch provides a classic keystroke sound, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch produces a muted and quieter sound, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches have their own unique sound profile, offering users a choice between a traditional mechanical keyboard sound and a more subdued audio feedback.
When it comes to feel, both the Jupiter Brown and Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer a similar polished typing experience with a smooth key travel. The Jupiter Brown switch is known for its mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience in a medium-heavy weight. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a stepped and accented tactile feel, giving users a medium bump and a padded bottom-out sensation. This makes the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch ideal for those looking for tactile feedback without the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. While the Jupiter Brown switch offers a more traditional keystroke sound and a polished typing experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch provides a quieter sound profile and a medium bump tactile feel. Depending on your personal preference for auditory feedback and typing sensation, both switches offer reliable performance and aesthetic appeal in their own right. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize traditional keystroke sound or subdued audio feedback in your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switches, consider your priorities. If you value a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy touch and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Brown may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers both tactile feedback and a silenced typing experience, particularly in noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience you desire. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you.
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