Bsun Kiki Red vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Kiki Red offers a finely-tuned typing experience with a high-pitched, clacky nuance that is not overly loud. With all-POM housings and smooth actuation due to Ly stems, these switches provide a unique sound signature and medium-light weighting for a subtle auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is perfect for those looking for a tactile and silenced switch, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. It offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that cater to different preferences, but diving deeper into their specifics will help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Bsun Kiki Red and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ in their housing materials, with the Kiki Red featuring POM top and bottom housings, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) includes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. POM is known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas polycarbonate produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Additionally, POM is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more resonant sound, while nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and fuller sound profile. These differences in material composition impact the overall sound experience of the switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the Kiki Red's POM housing provides a unique and pleasing sound, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s polycarbonate housing is more transparent and ideal for use with RGB lighting. The POM top housing of the Kiki Red contributes to a deep and muted sound profile, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) elicits a fuller and rounder sound. The choice of housing material can significantly influence the overall typing experience, as the top and bottom housings each play a role in determining the sound and feel of a key press.
While the Bsun Kiki Red and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilize different housing materials, they both aim to provide a unique and satisfying typing experience. The POM top housing of the Kiki Red and the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) each offer distinct sound profiles, with the former being deeper and the latter sharper. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the Kiki Red and the nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) contribute to the overall sound experience in different ways, showcasing the importance of housing materials in switch design. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and offer a tactile typing experience that enthusiasts can appreciate.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Kiki Red has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Silent T1, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Kiki Red requires 50 grams while the Silent T1 needs 67 grams, making it the heavier option. The Kiki Red is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Silent T1 is more suited for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Kiki Red has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent T1, making it a preferred choice for those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying and deep feeling when typing. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distance, catering to different preferences for keyboard users. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance for your typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is characterized by a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance that offers a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a more muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to the clacky nature of the Kiki Red. Both switches offer distinct auditory feedback, with the Kiki Red leaning towards a crisper sound while the Silent T1 provides a more subdued audio experience, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch is renowned for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press qualities. These switches offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, minimal resistance, and effortless key presses, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is characterized as stepped, accented, and polished, providing a two-stage tactile feel with a prominent amount of tactility that is not overwhelming. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, with the Kiki Red focusing on smoothness and ease of pressing while the Silent T1 offers a milder but distinct tactile bump.
Considering all the available information, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch excels in providing a clacky sound profile with a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts seeking subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. In comparison, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a muted sound profile with a stepped and accented tactile feel, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments where tactile feedback is desired. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch, you would want to choose it if you value a finely-tuned typing experience with subtle auditory feedback and smooth performance. The Kiki Red is best suited for those who enjoy a high-pitched, clacky sound without excessive loudness, all housed in POM material for a unique sound signature. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a silent operation, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be the better choice. This switch offers a medium bump for tactile feedback and is ideal for noise-sensitive environments due to its muted sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a smooth linear switch experience with a discernible sound like the Kiki Red, or a tactile switch with a subdued sound like the Silent T1.
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