KTT Miaowu vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Miaowu linear switch to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are key differences that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Miaowu switch is renowned for its smooth keystroke action and enhanced stem stability with the use of POK in its stem, providing a bouncy and clacky typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is designed for those who seek a tactile and silenced typing experience, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments with its medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, offering subdued audio feedback. While the Miaowu switch excels in providing a linear and stable typing experience, the Silent T1 offers a tactile and quiet alternative. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
POK
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The KTT Miaowu and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in housings leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. This similarity in material for the top housing of both switches suggests that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when using either the Miaowu or the Silent T1 (Shrimp).
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the KTT Miaowu features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, suggesting that both switches will provide users with a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches emphasizes the importance of material choice in achieving specific sound characteristics.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the KTT Miaowu and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) are the same, their bottom housing materials differ. This variation in housing materials allows each switch to offer a unique typing experience, with the characteristics of the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing contributes more to the sound upon key release. Whether users prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile from polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller sound from nylon, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it is evident that the Miaowu is lighter in both aspects. The Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams, with the actuation force being unknown. The Miaowu provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier bottom-out force, catering to those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Both switches have their advantages, with the Miaowu being lighter and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offering a medium to heavy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, which is shorter than the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Miaowu offers a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster reaction times. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a deeper key press feel with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. In summary, the Miaowu is the shorter option while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is the longer option, catering to different preferences in key press depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Miaowu switch provides a clacky experience, emitting a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter noise compared to a regular switch. Both switches excel in their own way, with the Miaowu delivering a more pronounced sound and the Silent T1 providing a subdued audio feedback, making it ideal for quieter environments.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Miaowu switch is known for its bouncy feedback, giving users a spring-like sensation with lively and responsive keys. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch offers a stepped and accented tactile experience, providing a medium bump with a padded bottom-out feel. Additionally, the Silent T1 is polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback, with the Miaowu focusing on a bouncy and lively feel while the Silent T1 providing a more nuanced and subdued tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the KTT Miaowu and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches offer contrasting yet equally impressive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Miaowu switch shines with its clacky sound and bouncy feedback, suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 excels in providing a muted sound profile and a stepped, accented tactile feel, making it a great choice for users in noise-sensitive environments. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the right fit based on their sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light linear switch with enhanced stem stability and a smooth keystroke action, the KTT Miaowu linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch that offers both tactility and a quieter typing experience, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is the way to go. Consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feel when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, the Miaowu is ideal for those who enjoy a bouncy and clacky typing experience, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) caters to those seeking a stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel with muted sound output. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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