Gateron Mars vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Mars and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences. The Gateron Mars, a linear switch, is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes, thanks to its innovative design that combines a POK stem with a nylon and POM housing, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists seeking quick actuation and uninterrupted typing flow. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) caters to users who appreciate a tactile bump while also prioritizing noise reduction; this switch features a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments like offices or shared spaces. While the Mars switch excels in speed and smoothness, the Silent T1 stands out for those who desire a more tactile and quieter typing experience. However, 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Mars and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) exhibit contrasting materials for their respective top housings, which significantly influence their sound profiles. The Mars features a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition, which effectively absorbs sound and results in a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Silent T1 employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant acoustical output, making it particularly advantageous for users who utilize RGB lighting, as the clear housing allows the illumination to shine through effectively.
Examining their bottom housings reveals an inverted relationship in the choice of materials; the Gateron Mars utilizes POM for its bottom housing, which bestows a unique and pleasing sound—a deeper and muted quality that complements the softer nylon upper. On the other hand, the Silent T1 uses a nylon bottom housing, similar to the Mars, which retains the classic characteristics of nylon, leading to a deeper sound profile that echoes the muted tendencies seen in the Mars's sound. This nuanced difference enhances the Marsh's overall profile, combining the softer qualities of both nylon and POM to create a distinctive audio experience, while the Silent T1 leverages the inherent properties of nylon in both sections for balance.
Ultimately, the interplay of these materials results in significant auditory differentiation for each switch, governed by the impact of the top and bottom housing. The sound emitted when pressing down on either switch is notably affected by each bottom housing's material characteristics, with the Mars's POM fostering a more muted depth, whereas the Silent T1's nylon bottom emits a similarly rich experience but may feel more refined. Conversely, when the switches are released, the top housing dynamics will shine through, with the Mars offering that rounded soft punch due to its nylon structure and the Silent T1 providing a sharper exit due to its polycarbonate design. While these switches offer distinctly different auditory signatures, using various combinations allows for a tailored typing experience that can meet diverse preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we can observe notable differences in their specifications. The Gateron Mars has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it a lighter switch that is favorable for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to register a keystroke. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an unspecified actuation force, but it features a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This suggests that while the Durock switch may provide a stronger push feel when fully pressed, we lack specific information on its actuation force. Therefore, if you prefer lighter switches for comfort over long periods, the Gateron Mars would be the better choice, while those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the heavier characteristics of the Silent T1 (Shrimp).
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Mars linear switch to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Gateron Mars features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option, while the Durock Silent T1 has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and offers a longer feel when pressed. The shorter travel distance of the Mars switch may cater to users who favor a more responsive typing experience, which can be particularly beneficial for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Silent T1 can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who appreciate a deeper keypress. Thus, while both switches serve different preferences—those inclined towards speed might lean towards the Gateron Mars, whereas those who favor a solid tactile feel may prefer the Durock Silent T1.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Mars switch is known for its quieter operation compared to traditional linear switches, although specific auditory qualities have not been provided to specify its exact sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is designed with noise-sensitive environments in mind, producing a muted sound that minimizes the typical clacky noise associated with many mechanical keyboards. This quality makes the Silent T1 particularly appealing for users who prioritize a quieter typing experience, which is especially beneficial in shared spaces or during late-night sessions. While the sound profile of the Mars switch is not explicitly detailed, users can expect it to have a subdued character similar to the Silent T1, particularly due to its innovative design and material blend.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mars switch offers an unspecified tactile feedback, leaving users to experience its unique typing sensations without a defined characterization. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a stepped tactile design, offering a medium bump that can be felt at two distinct stages during the keystroke. This switch delivers a balanced tactile experience that is not overwhelming, thanks to its accented feel, which provides a noticeable yet comfortable level of tactility. Additionally, the polished nature of the Silent T1 contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, enhancing overall key travel and reducing friction. Without definitive details on the Mars switch's feel, users may find the tactile qualities of the Silent T1 to present a more defined experience.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Mars switch leans towards a linear profile with undefined auditory and tactile qualities, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a distinct, muted sound and a well-defined, pleasant tactile feedback. Users looking for a quieter typing experience and a comfortable, refined feel are likely to appreciate the Silent T1, whereas those who prefer a smooth linear experience may find value in the Mars switch. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard landscape, and individuals may find comparable qualities in terms of sound and feel depending on their choice of board, keycaps, and personal typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing environment. If you prioritize a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile feedback, the Gateron Mars could be your ideal choice. Its innovative design featuring a POK stem and a blend of Nylon and POM promises a highly fluid typing experience, suitable for gaming or fast-paced typing where you don't want any tactile distractions. On the other hand, if you find value in the tactile feedback that bolsters your typing accuracy and you require a quieter operation—especially in shared or noise-sensitive environments—the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the way to go. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force, stepped tactile profile, and muted sound, you’ll enjoy a satisfying tactile bump without the loud clacking typically found in other switches. Thus, your choice should reflect whether you lean towards a pure linear experience for speed or a nicely balanced tactile feel that minimizes noise while still providing feedback.
Mentioned in this article
