Cherry MX Orange vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the Cherry MX Orange and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Cherry MX Orange, a linear switch, is recognized for its smooth keypresses and enhanced design, which pays homage to the original MX Orange switches produced by Cherry's Japanese partner Hirose. It is an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prefer an uninterrupted typing experience without the distraction of tactile bumps or audible clicks. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a unique blend of tactile feedback and muted sound, making it perfect for users in noise-sensitive environments who appreciate a soft yet noticeable bump during key presses. This switch is characterized by its padded bottom-out feel, ensuring comfort during prolonged use. While both switches cater to different typing preferences, they each provide distinct advantages tailored to specific user needs. 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), notable differences arise in their top housings. The MX Orange features a nylon top housing, which is known for contributing to a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, inherently absorbs more sound than harder materials, resulting in a rounder, muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Silent T1 employs a polycarbonate top housing. This material's stiffer composition creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, endowing it with a crisper auditory quality. Therefore, the MX Orange will yield a warmer sound due to the nylon's absorption properties, whereas the Durock Silent T1 will deliver a clearer tone, particularly noticeable in the presence of RGB lighting, since polycarbonate's translucency enhances the visual aesthetics of illuminated switches.
On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, indicating a shared characteristic that influences the overall sound profile during typing. The nylon bottom housing in both the MX Orange and the Silent T1 contributes to a deeper reverberation that enhances the fullness of each keystroke. This similarity in bottom housing materials suggests that the typos will feel softer and more absorbent regardless of the type of top housing used. Thus, while the top housings diverge in their qualities, the shared nylon material in the bottom will ensure a consistent base experience when bottoming out.
In essence, the differences in the top housing materials create distinct auditory characteristics, while the commonality of nylon in the bottom housing helps to unify the tactile feel. Users who prioritize a plush, muted sound profile may prefer the MX Orange, while those looking for clarity and brightness in their keystrokes might gravitate towards the Durock Silent T1. However, because both switches contain nylon in their bottom housings, they share a kinship in terms of feel, resulting in a nuanced and satisfying typing experience regardless of the switch preference. Thus, while the sounds that emerge from the Cherry MX Orange and the Silent T1 will differ, the consistency in their bottom housings means that users should expect a degree of familiarity across both switch types.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we find some notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cherry MX Orange has a defined actuation force of 55 grams, providing a medium typing experience suitable for prolonged use without excessive fatigue. However, its bottom out force remains unknown, making it difficult to gauge its full range of resistance when bottoming out. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) does not have a specified actuation force but boasts a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This heavier bottom out force suggests a more substantial key press, which might appeal more to users who prefer a firmer feedback when typing. Consequently, the Cherry MX Orange is the lighter option, favoring users who prefer a switch that is easier to press over longer sessions, while the Durock Silent T1 caters to those who enjoy a more robust feel with its heavier characteristics. Overall, while the actuation force of the Durock Silent T1 isn't known, the difference in bottom out force highlights the contrasting experiences these two switches provide.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This similarity in distance means that users can expect comparable feedback and feel when pressing down on either switch. Since both switches require the same amount of movement to reach their actuation points, those who switch between them may find a consistent experience in terms of key travel. Overall, if you're looking for a uniform feel during typing or gaming, either option will yield similar results due to their identical travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 Cherry MX Orange switch produces a soft audio profile that tends to be quieter than many other mechanical switches. It allows for a pleasant level of feedback without being overly intrusive. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a muted sound, designed specifically for noise-sensitive environments. This switch minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards, producing a softer and quieter auditory experience. While both switches lean towards a more subdued sound, the Silent T1 excels in environments where noise reduction is paramount, making it a preferable choice for those who seek discretion while typing.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch is characterized by its linear action, providing a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump. This allows for a fluid typing experience that many users enjoy, particularly for fast-paced gaming or typing. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 features a stepped tactile feel, providing a noticeable but mild bump during the keystroke. This can give the user more tactile feedback without the overwhelming character often found in highly tactile switches. The distinction between a straightforward linear feel and a subtle stepped bump offers a different typing experience, catering to personal preferences for tactile feedback.
In summary, the Cherry MX Orange switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) each have their strengths based on different user needs. The MX Orange, while smooth and quiet, is better suited for those who do not require the sound dampening that the Silent T1 offers. Conversely, the Silent T1 provides a quieter and more tactile experience, ideal for noise-sensitive situations. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a linear action or a tactile sensation, along with your sensitivity to sound while typing.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a smooth, linear feel without the distraction of audible clicks, and you're looking for a switch that allows for rapid key presses, the MX Orange could be an excellent choice, especially in gaming scenarios where quick response times are crucial. On the other hand, if you value tactile feedback while minimizing noise—making the Silent T1 ideal for shared workspaces or quiet home environments—you'll appreciate the medium-heavy actuation force and subtle bump that this switch offers. The muted sound profile of the Silent T1 provides a more pleasant experience for those around you, while the MK Orange's characteristics cater to a more straightforward, unimpeded typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize sound dampening and tactile feedback, or a smooth and responsive keystroke.
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