Gazzew LT vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are countless options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Two switches that stand out in the crowd are the Gazzew LT and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Gazzew LT, a linear switch, captivates users with its alluring lilac hue and offers a satisfying auditory experience with deep, resonant thockiness. Typing on LT switches feels as smooth as gliding on air. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch, perfect for those who desire both a tactile feel and a silent typing experience. This switch features a medium bump, providing a subtle and padded bottom-out feel, while also offering subdued audio feedback. It is especially suitable for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches have their own distinct advantages, enticing users in different ways. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The LT utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housing. This soft plastic blend, also known as "boba plastic," creates a rich and deep sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a softer and more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) employs polycarbonate for its top housing. This stiffer plastic material contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, which is particularly desirable for users looking for a clearer and more vibrant typing sound. Consequently, the distinct housing materials of the LT and Silent T1 (Shrimp) cater to different preferences in terms of auditory feedback.
While the top housings of the LT and Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ, they both offer benefits in terms of aesthetics. The LT's Gazzew blend is not transparent, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is translucent. This translucency allows for more vibrant RGB lighting effects, making it an appealing choice for users who prioritize visual customization. Therefore, those seeking visually stunning keycap setups may find the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) more suitable.
In terms of bottom housings, the LT utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend, providing a similar sound experience as its top housing. With its softness, the Gazzew blend creates a rich and deep sound profile, contributing to a more rounded and muffled typing sound. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) incorporates nylon for its bottom housing. As a relatively softer material, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in bottom housing materials offers distinct auditory feedback, allowing users to choose the switch that aligns with their preferred typing sound.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ, they provide unique sound profiles to cater to different preferences. The LT's proprietary Gazzew blend creates a softer and resonant typing experience, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) produces a sharper and more vibrant sound profile. Additionally, the distinct bottom housing materials, whether it be the Gazzew blend or nylon, offer further variations in the typing sound. Ultimately, users can choose between these switches based on their desired auditory and visual experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is important to consider the weight of the switches. Unfortunately, the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare them. However, in terms of bottom out force, the LT has a force of 65 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, also falling within the medium-heavy range.
For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the unavailable actuation force of both switches may provide similar results, allowing for a more effortless keystroke. This lighter feel can be advantageous for those who type for longer periods of time, such as in a work or gaming setting. In contrast, for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, both the LT and Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force. This heavier force can provide a satisfying tactile feedback and added resistance during typing.
Overall, while the actuation force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch remains unknown, their bottom out forces are relatively similar, falling within the medium-heavy range. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing experience and the desired level of resistance.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Comparing the two, it is clear that the Silent T1 has a longer travel distance. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Silent T1 falls into the traditional range, providing a deeper feel when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the 3.2 mm travel distance of the LT offers a shorter and more responsive experience, which can be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. While the LT has a slightly shorter distance, it is important to note that both switches provide a reasonable travel distance for typing or gaming purposes. So, depending on personal preference, one can choose between the shorter and more responsive LT switch or the longer and deeper Silent T1 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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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 Gazzew LT linear switch is best known for its deep, resonant thockiness that offers a satisfying auditory experience. With a lilac hue that adds visual appeal, typing on the LT switches provides a seamless glide with every keystroke. These switches can be described as bassy, producing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. They have a low-pitched tone, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, on the other hand, is perfect for those who prefer a tactile switch with silenced properties. Ideal for noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 offers a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel. Its audio feedback is muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches.
As for feel, the available information does not provide specific descriptions for the Gazzew LT switches. Unfortunately, we do not have details on how they feel during keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch can be described as a stepped switch. This means it offers a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. It is not overwhelming in terms of tactility but provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither subtle nor excessive. Additionally, the Silent T1 can be considered as an accented switch, meaning it offers a medium amount of tactility without being scratchy.
In conclusion, while both the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have their unique qualities, they cater to different preferences. The LT switches excel in sound, offering a deep and resonant thockiness that is characterized by its bassy and low-pitched profile. The Silent T1 switches, on the other hand, are known for their muted sound, providing a softer and quieter experience suitable for noise-sensitive environments. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the LT switches is not available. However, the Silent T1 switches offer a stepped feel with mild tactility and a polished finish for smooth key travel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience with a deep and resonant sound profile, the Gazzew LT linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With their lilac hue and auditory symphony of thockiness, these switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you value a tactile switch that is both silent and provides a padded bottom-out feel, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is the way to go. It is perfect for noise-sensitive environments and offers a medium bump along with subdued audio feedback. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and requirements for your keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
