Outemu Lime vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime 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 for tactile enthusiasts are the Outemu Lime and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Lime switches are highly regarded for their unique qualities such as being lightweight, offering an approachable tactility, and being silenced. These switches provide a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility, making them perfect for those who prefer a softer typing feel. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch caters to individuals who desire both tactility and silence. It features a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While both switches offer a muted and polished typing experience, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. However, let's dive deeper into the details to help you make an informed decision about which switch would be the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Lime and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ in their housing materials, with the Lime featuring a nylon top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The nylon top housing of the Lime contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, producing a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it ideal for utilizing RGB lighting effects.
Although both switches have a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, the top housing material still plays a significant role in the overall sound. When typing on either switch, the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer composition, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is primarily influenced by the bottom housing material. Conversely, the top housing material has a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the bottom housing influences the overall sound experience, the top housing material can still provide distinct characteristics.
In terms of similarities, both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The sound produced by the nylon bottom housing is dulled and rounded due to its softer plastic composition, allowing for a pleasant typing experience. Therefore, if a user is seeking a switch with a deeper and fuller sound profile, both the Outemu Lime and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) would provide similar results due to their shared nylon bottom housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in weight. The Lime has a relatively lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This lighter weight makes it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it allows for more extended periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an actuation force that is currently unknown, but it boasts a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams. This heavier weight provides a more substantial typing experience and may be preferable for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel. While the specific actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is unspecified, it is evident that this switch offers a heavier bottom out force compared to the Lime. Overall, for those seeking a lighter option, the Lime provides a suitable choice, while those desiring a heavier switch may find the Silent T1 (Shrimp) more to their liking.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that the Lime has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Silent T1 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Lime falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is preferred by gamers who desire faster response times. On the other hand, the Silent T1 offers a more hearty depth due to its longer travel distance. It is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches, as those who prioritize responsiveness may opt for the Lime, while those who enjoy a more pronounced keypress may lean towards the Silent T1. Despite their differences, both switches provide a tangible travel distance that can be felt when pressing down on a key.
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 Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Lime tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile and a moderate noise level. While it is not completely silent, it is muted compared to regular or clacky switches, making it more suitable for noise-sensitive environments. Similarly, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch also offers a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a feathery and mild typing experience. It features a gentle resistance that is not too overwhelming but still maintains a noticeable tactility. The switch is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined keystroke.
On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a stepped and accented tactile feel. It has a two-stage bump, providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The switch also has a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer similar qualities in terms of sound. Both switches are muted and designed to minimize noise. However, in terms of feel, they provide distinct experiences. The Lime switch is known for its feathery lightness and mild tactility, while the Silent T1 offers a stepped and accented tactile feel. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on an individual's preference for either a lighter and more approachable typing experience (Lime) or a medium tactility with a padded bottom-out feel (Silent T1).
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a tactile fan who is looking for a feathery light typing experience with just a touch of tactility, the Outemu Lime tactile switch would be the perfect choice for you. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches offer a lightweight feel that reduces finger fatigue and provides comfort for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Lime switches are silenced, meaning they produce a softer and quieter sound, making them suitable for noise-sensitive environments. The Lime switches are also described as neutral, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that combines both tactility and silence, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch would be the ideal option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy feel with a padded bottom-out sensation. They are perfect for those who want a tactile switch that provides a medium bump without being overwhelming. Similar to the Lime switches, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches are also silenced, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, your choice between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch depends on whether you prioritize a feathery light typing experience with approachable tactility or a medium bump with a subdued audio feedback. Consider your preferences for typing feel and sound, as well as the level of tactility and silence you desire when making your decision.
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