Durock Light Tactile vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile 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 to consider are the Durock Light Tactile and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Light Tactile switch is well-known for its gentle tactility, providing a softer experience compared to the sharper tactile switches found in the market. Typing on these switches offers a satisfying angelic tactility accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is perfect for those who desire both a tactile switch and a silenced experience, making it an excellent choice for noise-sensitive environments. These switches offer a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, along with subdued audio feedback. While these general pointers give a good starting point, let's dive deeper into the characteristics of each switch to help you make the best decision according to your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that allows for clear and resonant sounds. Additionally, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting effects. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with similar sound characteristics and the ability to showcase RGB lighting, both the Light Tactile and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be suitable options.
However, the main difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Light Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. By incorporating nylon in the bottom housing, both switches create a duller and rounder sound when pressed. This impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is prominent in switches with different top and bottom housings, as the qualities of the bottom housing directly influence the typing experience.
In summary, while the top housings of both the Durock Light Tactile and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are made of polycarbonate, their variations in bottom housing material create distinctions in sound and feel. The Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s nylon bottom housing generates a similar effect. The choice between these switches would depend on individual preference for the typing experience, as the impact of the bottom housing is more pronounced when compared to the influence of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The Light Tactile switch has an actuation force of 52 grams, providing a medium-heavy resistance to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is unavailable, making it difficult to determine how it compares in terms of force required for the initial keystroke. Both switches, however, share a bottom out force of 67 grams, which indicates a consistent medium-heavy resistance when fully pressed down.
Considering weight as a factor, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Light Tactile switch more suitable as it requires a relatively lower actuation force. This lighter feel can be advantageous for prolonged typing sessions, making it ideal for use in work settings or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Silent T1 switch, even with the unknown actuation force. The consistent bottom out force of 67 grams provides a satisfying resistance for a more impactful typing experience.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Durock Light Tactile and Silent T1 switches differs, both switches exhibit a medium-heavy bottom out force. The Light Tactile offers a lighter actuation force, appealing to users who prioritize extended typing comfort, while the Silent T1 provides a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, both switches provide a similar experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Light Tactile switch from Durock offers a neutral profile with a moderate sound level. This means that it produces a sound that is not too loud or too quiet, making it suitable for most environments, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using it at home or at work. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as producing a muted sound. This means that it creates a quieter and softer sound compared to regular switches, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued audio feedback and for noise-sensitive environments. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Light Tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. It offers a gentle tactile feedback that is not too pronounced, providing a safe and comfortable middle-ground typing experience. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is described as having a stepped and accented feel. It offers a tactile experience that feels softer compared to hypertactile switches, with noticeable pre-travel and/or post-travel. Similar to the Light Tactile, the Silent T1 also features a polished finish that enhances smooth key travel and reduces friction during typing.
In conclusion, the Durock Light Tactile and Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches differ in their subjective qualities. The Light Tactile switch provides a gentle and angelic tactility, accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature that is neutral in its profile. It offers a mild and polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Silent T1 switch offers a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. It is designed for those who prefer a tactile and silenced switch, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. While both switches have a polished finish, providing smooth key travel, they offer distinct characteristics in terms of tactility and sound. If you are looking for a softer and quieter typing experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more gentle and balanced tactile feedback, the Light Tactile switch would be a suitable option. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer quality and performance that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switches, there are a few key factors to consider.
The Light Tactile is perfect for those seeking a switch with a gentle and angelic tactility, offering a welcome contrast to sharper tactile switches. It provides a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Additionally, it has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in the office. In terms of feel, the Light Tactile offers a mild typing experience, thanks to its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a great choice for those looking for a tactile and silenced switch, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. It also features a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a stepped feel, providing a more mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. In terms of sound, this switch is muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. Like the Light Tactile, it also has a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) depends on your preference for the level of tactility and sound. If you desire a switch with a more pronounced and gentle tactility, along with a neutral sound profile, the Light Tactile is the way to go. However, if you value a silenced switch with a stepped tactile feel, along with a muted sound, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the better option. Consider your typing style, environment, and personal preferences when making your decision.
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