Gateron Magnetic Jade vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) each cater to different typing preferences and environments. The Gateron Magnetic Jade, known for its hall effect technology, delivers a bright and clacky sound profile, making it a popular choice for typists who crave a vibrant auditory feedback and an overall superior typing experience. Its design is particularly suited for those looking to enhance the acoustics of their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch that prioritizes a quieter operation without sacrificing the tactile bump that many typists enjoy. Ideal for noise-sensitive environments, this switch offers a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, delivering a muted typing experience that is less disruptive in shared spaces. While both switches have their distinct advantages—one emphasizing sound and responsiveness, the other focusing on a quieter, tactile feel—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Magnetic Jade and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which leads to a similar auditory experience. Polycarbonate, known for its rigidity, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, allowing users to enjoy a more resonant typing experience. Additionally, this material's translucency is advantageous for users utilizing RGB lighting, as it effectively diffuses light, enhancing the visual appeal of keyboard setups. Given these characteristics, both switches will produce a comparable sound profile when typing, emphasizing clarity and brightness, which many users seek in mechanical keyboards.
In contrast to their identical top housing materials, the Magnetic Jade and the Silent T1 exhibit variations in their bottom housing. The Magnetic Jade employs nylon, a material recognized for its softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile when typing, effectively tempering the sharpness of the top housing. Conversely, the Silent T1 also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound absorption qualities. The outcome is that both switches deliver a more rounded and duller sound, contrasting with the piercing notes produced by the polycarbonate top. This diversity of sound profiles—one sharper and clearer and the other deeper and rounder—provides users with distinct auditory experiences despite their common top material.
Together, the differences in bottom housing materials highlight the complex interplay between the acoustic qualities of switch design. With the Magnetic Jade and Silent T1 both incorporating nylon in their lower housings, users can anticipate a similar foundational feel when bottoming out, characterized by a softer sound. Therefore, while both switches share the same top housing material advantages in sound clarity and RGB compatibility, the underlying nylon bottom housing contributes distinct, yet complementary, qualities to the overall typing experience. This combination of materials ultimately allows users to tailor their preferences for sound and feel while enjoying the visual benefits provided by the polycarbonate tops.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Magnetic Jade features an actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Silent T1 has an actuation force that is unspecified (None grams) and a higher bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This distinction suggests that the Magnetic Jade is significantly lighter than the Silent T1, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming without fatigue. The Silent T1, being heavier, might provide a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Therefore, for those seeking lighter switches for comfort, the Magnetic Jade is the clear choice, while the Silent T1 caters to those who appreciate a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it's evident that they differ, as the Magnetic Jade features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent T1 boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users who choose the Magnetic Jade will experience a shorter actuation distance, which might be preferred by gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the Silent T1, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel that some users appreciate for typing or gaming. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness with the shorter actuation of the Magnetic Jade or prefer the deeper, more tactile experience offered by the Silent T1.
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 Gateron Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 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 Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch provides a bright and clacky auditory profile that appeals to enthusiasts who revel in the distinctive acoustic feedback of their typing. This lively sound is perfect for those looking to enhance the auditory experience of their keyboard; it delivers a pronounced auditory feedback akin to a traditional mechanical switch. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) conveys a vastly different auditory signature. It is designed for noise-sensitive environments, producing a muted sound that significantly reduces the typical clatter associated with mechanical switches. This softer audio output allows users to enjoy the tactile benefits of a mechanical keyboard while minimizing disturbances, making it ideal for office settings or for use in shared spaces.
When examining the feel of these switches, the Gateron Magnetic Jade feels quite distinct with its emphasis on a clacky, engaging typing experience, but specifics about its tactile feedback are less detailed. Meanwhile, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) embodies a stepped tactile feel, which provides a clear bump that is both mild and pronounced at the same time. This switch balances tactile presence with comfort, offering a polished typing experience marked by reduced friction and smooth key travel. Moreover, the combination of accents in its design fosters a notably pleasant engagement without overwhelming the user—a quality appreciated by individuals who prefer tactile feedback without excessive force.
In summary, the Gateron Magnetic Jade and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Magnetic Jade excels in delivering an engaging sound characteristic, particularly good for users who enjoy a lively auditory experience, while the Silent T1 focuses on providing a quieter, tactile experience for those in noise-sensitive environments. Each switch offers a unique feel, with the Silent T1 boasting a smooth, polished operation coupled with a noticeable tactile bump. Depending on your needs, you can choose a switch reflective of your typing style and auditory preferences for an enjoyable keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the environments in which you’ll use your keyboard. If you prioritize a lively and pronounced sound profile, along with a lighter activation force that reduces fatigue during long typing sessions, the Magnetic Jade is likely the better choice for you. Its clacky acoustics and responsive feel cater to those who enjoy auditory feedback while gaming or typing, creating a stimulating atmosphere that many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, if you find yourself in a noise-sensitive environment, such as an office or shared workspace, the Silent T1 is optimal for you. Its muted sound and medium-heavy tactile bump offer a satisfying typing experience without the disruptive clatter associated with other mechanical switches. The Stepped nature of the Silent T1 provides a balanced tactile feedback that is both noticeable yet discreet, allowing you to type comfortably without disturbing those around you. Overall, your choice between these switches should hinge on your sound preference and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard, ensuring you select the switch that best aligns with your typing style and situational needs.
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