Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it's easy to see their distinct characteristics. The Jupiter Reds provide a smooth and uninterrupted typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation, perfect for those who value consistency in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a tactile feedback with a padded bottom-out feel, great for users who enjoy a bit of feedback while typing but also need a quiet environment. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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 Red and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches intended for RGB lighting. Both switches will offer a similar sound experience and aesthetic appeal with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Jupiter Red uses nylon while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics. This is because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The unique characteristics of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches will impact the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a distinct typing experience.
Ultimately, the difference in housing materials between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) lies in their bottom housings. While both switches boast polycarbonate top housings that offer similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart. Typing on these switches will provide varying sound experiences, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Overall, these contrasting bottom housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Silent T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Jupiter Red has a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of force required. The lighter actuation force of the Jupiter Red may appeal to those who prefer a smoother typing experience for longer periods, while the heavier bottom out force of the Silent T1 might be favored by those looking for a more substantial typing feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent experience in terms of travel distance, making them suitable choices for users looking for a certain level of keypress feedback. The fact that both switches have the same travel distance ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and feedback.
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 Red 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch provides a neutral auditory experience suitable for various settings, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a more muted sound profile that is ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches offer differing sound experiences based on their design and materials, but ultimately provide a quieter alternative to traditional mechanical switches.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a stepped, accented, and polished typing feel, offering a mild tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. Both switches cater to individuals looking for different levels of tactility and smoothness in their typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provide distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Jupiter Red offers a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a tactile bump and quiet operation, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. Depending on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as your need for a specific sound profile, either switch can offer a satisfying typing experience that meets your individual needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prioritize a smooth and consistent typing experience with medium actuation force, the Jupiter Red is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you desire a tactile switch with a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback for noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a linear switch with a polished and creamy feel or a tactile switch with a stepped and accented tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique characteristics suited to different preferences, so choosing between them depends on your typing style and environmental needs.
Mentioned in this article
