Zuoce Lavender vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Zuoce Lavender and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) stand out for their unique characteristics. The Lavender switch is a linear switch known for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch that offers both a tactile bump and a silenced typing experience, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. While the Lavender switch is easy to press and clacky, the Silent T1 is stepped, accented, muted, and polished. However, to truly determine the best switch for you, it is essential to delve deeper into their specific features and performance.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
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
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ in their housing materials, with the Lavender featuring POM top and bottom housings while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The POM top housing of the Lavender creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) produces a sharper and crisper sound. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the POM bottom housing of the Lavender.
In terms of sound quality, the POM top and bottom housings of the Lavender offer a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. On the other hand, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Silent T1 (Shrimp) creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound with a deeper and fuller tone. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the choice between the two will ultimately depend on individual preference for sound characteristics.
Although the housing materials of the Zuoce Lavender and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are different, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience with unique sound profiles. While the Lavender's POM top and bottom housings create a more muted sound, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offers a sharper and fuller sound. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience and offer a range of sound profiles for users to choose from.
Weight
In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that the Lavender is the lighter of the two. The Lavender has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Lavender, as it allows for longer typing sessions and smoother keystrokes. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Silent T1 with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is clear that the Lavender has a shorter travel distance at 3.4 mm, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial key press feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 Zuoce Lavender switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a sharp and satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a muted sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience in noise-sensitive environments. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Lavender being more on the crisp and bright side, and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) focused on minimizing noise levels.
When it comes to feel, the Zuoce Lavender switch is recognized for its easy-to-press nature, offering a light actuation force that enhances typing comfort and reduces fatigue during long periods of use. Conversely, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch provides a stepped feel with accented tactility, offering a more nuanced typing experience with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. Additionally, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as polished, ensuring a smooth key travel for a refined typing feel.
Overall, the Zuoce Lavender switch excels in providing a clacky sound profile and an easy-to-press feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. Conversely, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch combines a muted sound with a stepped and polished feel, catering to users who prioritize a quieter typing experience with nuanced tactility. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can elevate your typing experience, providing similar results in terms of overall satisfaction and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize smoothness and a crisp, clacky sound, the Lavender might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback for noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be more suitable. Ultimately, the Lavender offers a lighter actuation force and a clacky sound signature, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a tactile experience with a silenced operation. It all comes down to your personal typing style and environment to determine which switch would best enhance your typing experience.
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