SP-Star Meteor White vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two noteworthy options that warrant consideration are the SP-Star Meteor White and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Meteor White is a linear switch that can be best described as gentle and subdued. It offers a soft, pitter-patter sound profile alongside an easy-to-push feel. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', this switch is an excellent choice for those seeking a smooth and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) caters to individuals who desire a tactile switch with silenced properties, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. With a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback, it provides an ideal blend of feedback and silence. Categorized as 'Stepped', 'Accented', 'Muted', and 'Polished', it offers a different typing experience compared to the Meteor White. Both switches have their unique features and advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The Meteor White features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to nylon. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is advantageous for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Meteor White and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) feature nylon. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its impact on the top housing. As a relatively softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will deliver a similar sound experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel, as it is primarily influenced by the properties of the bottom housing material.
In terms of overall functionality, the difference in the housing materials of the top and bottom components of a switch can lead to a split in sound qualities. The bottom housing material tends to have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound produced when a key is released. This distinction allows users to experience a combination of both sound profiles, depending on their typing style and preferences. So, while the specific housing materials may differ, the Meteor White and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer similar results in terms of their acoustic characteristics and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we can see some notable differences. The actuation force of both switches is unavailable, which means we cannot compare them in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the Silent T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considering weight is an important factor when choosing a switch, as it can influence typing comfort and endurance. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Meteor White with its lower bottom out force can be a suitable choice. The lighter force allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Silent T1. With its higher bottom out force, users can expect a stronger push feel while typing, resulting in a more satisfying tactile feedback.
Although we do not have information about the actuation force for either switch, it is possible to assume that the actuation forces could be similar. Since both switches are linear (in the case of the Meteor White) and tactile (for the Silent T1), the actuation forces may be comparable in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, without specific values, it is difficult to make a definitive comparison in this aspect.
In summary, the Meteor White is the lighter option with a medium-light bottom out force, while the Silent T1 is the heavier choice with a medium-heavy bottom out force. The actuation force remains unknown for both switches, but it is plausible to expect similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and endurance.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. So, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 SP-Star Meteor White linear switch has a neutral sound profile. It produces a moderate sound when pressed and released, making it suitable for most purposes. It does not have a distinctive "thocky" sound, but rather a gentle and pitter-patter sound profile. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers a muted sound compared to regular or clacky switches. It is designed to minimize noise and create a softer and quieter typing experience. The sound produced by both switches will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience. It falls in the safe and middle-ground zone, offering a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, it has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch has a stepped feel. It provides a mild tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, giving it a two-stage typing sensation. It is also described as accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Like the Meteor White, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also has a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a soft and gentle typing experience with a neutral sound profile. It is easy to press and has a pitter-patter sound. The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, on the other hand, provides a silenced typing experience with a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel. It offers subdued audio feedback and is ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While they have different characteristics, it is possible to achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel by adjusting other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a gentle and soft typing experience with a quiet sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch would be a great choice. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, it offers a medium-light actuation force that is easy to push. Its sound profile is described as neutral or thocky, producing a moderate and satisfying sound when pressed. Additionally, the Meteor White switch has a mild and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you desire a tactile switch that is both tactile and silenced, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch would be the ideal option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a medium-heavy actuation force. The Silent T1 provides a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. Its sound profile is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. The Silent T1 switch also offers a stepped and accented feel, providing a more mild tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Similar to the Meteor White, it also has a polished feel, resulting in smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your choice between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch depends on your preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and desired level of tactile feedback. Consider your environment, whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch, and whether you prioritize a silent typing experience. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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