Durock Lupine vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Durock Lupine and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Durock Lupine and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Lupine, a linear switch, stands out for its two-stage long springs, providing an enjoyable typing sensation. The weight distribution is consistent when pressing down, followed by a powerful upward movement on the rebound. In terms of sound, the Lupine produces a classic clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch, making it perfect for those who prefer a more tactile feedback while typing. Additionally, it is specially designed for noise-sensitive environments as it offers a muted audio feedback. It features a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, delivering a distinct typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage long spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Durock Lupine and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) share similarities in their housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which offers clear and resonant sound characteristics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound and aesthetic experiences when using both the Lupine and the Silent T1 (Shrimp).
While the top housing of these switches may be the same, the difference lies in their bottom housing materials. The Lupine features a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a nylon bottom housing as well. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the duller and rounder sound created by the nylon bottom housing can be experienced when using both the Lupine and the Silent T1 (Shrimp).
It's important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either the Lupine or the Silent T1 (Shrimp), the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be largely influenced by the bottom housing material. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Lupine and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) may have similar top housing materials, the difference in bottom housing materials may provide varying typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is important to consider their actuation and bottom out forces. Unfortunately, the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, we can still analyze their bottom out forces.
The Durock Lupine linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium in terms of heaviness. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Weight is an important factor to consider when selecting a switch. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as they enable longer typing periods, which is ideal for those who use their keyboards extensively at work or for prolonged gaming sessions. Conversely, others prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, and for them, switches with heavier forces are preferable.
Although the actuation forces are unknown for both the Lupine linear and Silent T1 tactile switches, it can be expected that the actuation forces are similar, assuming that both switches fall under the category of medium or medium-heavy bottom out forces. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes for both switches.
In summary, while both the Durock Lupine linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have unavailable actuation forces, their bottom out forces differ, with the Lupine being lighter at 62 grams and the Silent T1 being slightly heavier at 67 grams. Understanding one's preference for typing experience and considering the length of use will help determine the appropriate switch to choose.
Travel distance
The Durock Lupine linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have different travel distances. The Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Silent T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Silent T1 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Lupine.
When it comes to travel distances, 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Lupine may be a better choice for you.
On the other hand, some people find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. If you prefer a more substantial feeling when typing, the longer travel distance of the Silent T1 may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on your personal preference for responsiveness versus depth. Regardless of which switch you choose, both the Lupine and Silent T1 offer satisfying travel distances for a comfortable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine 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
The Durock Lupine linear switch provides a satisfying typing experience with its two-stage long springs. The weight distribution when pressing down is consistent, and on the rebound, there is a more powerful upward movement, giving a unique feel. When it comes to sound, the Lupine switch produces a classic clacky profile, which can be pleasing for those who prefer a distinct sound while typing. Overall, the Lupine switch offers a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel. With its safe middle-ground qualities, it is suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is designed for individuals who desire both tactile feedback and a silenced typing experience in noise-sensitive environments. This switch provides a medium bump, delivering a noticeable tactile response without being overwhelming. The bottom-out feel is padded, ensuring a gentle landing when fully pressed. In terms of sound, the Silent T1 offers a muted profile, significantly reducing the noise usually associated with mechanical keyboards. This switch provides an accented tactile feel without being scratchy, and like the Lupine, it also has a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel.
Comparing these two switches, while they have their distinct characteristics, they offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth typing experience. The Lupine's clacky sound profile can provide a satisfying audible feedback, while the Silent T1's sound is muted, minimizing noise in quiet environments. The Lupine offers a consistent weight distribution and a more powerful rebound, while the Silent T1 provides a medium bump with a padded bottom-out feel. Overall, both switches provide enjoyable typing experiences, catering to different preferences for sound and tactile feedback. With these switches combined with a compatible keyboard and keycaps, users can achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a consistent and clacky sound profile, along with a medium weight distribution on the press and a powerful upward movement on the rebound, the Durock Lupine linear switch is the one for you. It offers a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is the better choice. It is perfect for those who want a tactile and silenced switch, ideal for noise-sensitive environments. The Silent T1 has a muted sound profile and offers a stepped typing feel, providing a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your desired sound and feel preferences, as well as the specific environment in which you plan to use the switches.
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