KTT Kang White vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the KTT Kang White and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Kang White is a linear switch that offers a delightful typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, thanks to its self-lubricating material. It is categorized as low-pitched and neutral. On the other hand, the Silent T1 is a tactile switch that is perfect for those who want both a tactile feel and silenced operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. This switch provides a medium bump, a cushioned bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. It is categorized as stepped, accented, muted, and polished. Both switches have their strengths depending on personal preferences and usage scenarios. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The KTT Kang White and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice enhances the sound profile of both switches, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a more visually appealing experience. However, it is important to note that while the materials may be the same, the design and construction of the top housings could still vary between the two switches, potentially resulting in subtle differences in sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Kang White and the Silent T1 feature nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Its relatively softer composition allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As with the top housings, the bottom housings may differ in design and construction between the Kang White and the Silent T1, which could lead to minor variations in sound and feel.
It is worth mentioning that the distribution of qualities brought by the housing materials differ in impact depending on whether they are used in the top or bottom housing. When pressing down a key, the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, even if the materials used for the housing are the same between the Kang White and the Silent T1, the specific design and configuration of these components could still yield slight differences in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Kang White switch is 45 grams, while the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is unavailable. In terms of bottom out force, the Kang White requires 58 grams of force, whereas the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch calls for 67 grams, making it slightly heavier.
Weight plays a significant role in the typing experience for many users. Those who prefer a lighter weight switch may appreciate the Kang White's lower actuation and bottom out forces. This lighter touch can allow for longer typing sessions, making it an ideal choice for those who frequently use their keyboard for work or extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, some individuals favor a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. For these users, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch with its heavier bottom out force may be preferable. This added resistance can provide a satisfying tactile feedback, enhancing the overall typing experience.
It is worth mentioning that since the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is listed as unavailable, it is difficult to directly compare it with the Kang White switch in terms of actuation force. However, based on the provided information, it is clear that the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch has a higher bottom out force, thus offering a more substantial typing feel compared to the Kang White.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference. Whether one prefers a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or a heavier, more satisfying typing experience, both the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provide options to cater to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is 4 mm. Therefore, both switches offer the same travel distance, providing a similar experience when pressing down on a key. This distance refers to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, allowing users to feel the switch's movement when typing or gaming. It is worth noting that having the same travel distance ensures consistency in the typing or gaming experience 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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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
The Kang White linear switch is well-known for its dazzling typing sound. It produces a low-pitched sound, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This makes it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter and more soothing typing experience. Additionally, the self-lubricating material of the Kang White switch adds to its smoothness, providing an unparalleled typing feel.
On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is perfect for those who want both a tactile feel and silenced switch. It offers a medium bump, giving users a noticeable tactile feedback when typing. This switch also provides a padded bottom-out feel, which means that when you press the key all the way down, it feels cushioned and reduces the impact on your fingers. Furthermore, the Silent T1 has a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter typing sound compared to regular mechanical switches.
Considering all the available information, if you prefer a linear switch with a low-pitched sound and smooth typing feel, the Kang White would be an excellent choice. If you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium bump and muted sound, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the way to go. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you want similar results in terms of sound and feel, you can achieve them by customizing your keyboard with keycaps and choosing a suitable keyboard housing that complements the switch's characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and delightful typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Kang White linear switch would be a great choice for you. Its self-lubricating material ensures unparalleled smoothness while typing, and its dazzling sound adds a certain charm to your keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that is also quieter, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the perfect option. With its medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, it offers a subdued audio feedback that is ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Additionally, the Silent T1 switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Kang White and Silent T1 switches depends on your preference for linear switches with a poppy sound or tactile switches with a silenced and tactile feel.
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