Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, each comes with its own unique features tailored to different user preferences. The Cherry MX Purple RGB stands out with its refined tactile experience, offering a medium-strength bump that engages typists without overwhelming them, making it a great choice for those seeking a responsive feedback feel while still enjoying a touch of versatility. Developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, this switch provides a satisfying tactile response that can enhance both gaming and typing performance. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) caters specifically to users looking for a quieter operation without sacrificing the tactile feel. With a medium bump and a padded bottom-out, the Silent T1 excels in noise-sensitive environments, providing a comfortable, almost muted typing experience without the loud audible clicks of traditional switches. While both switches offer tactile feedback, they serve different purposes—one emphasizes a pronounced tactile sensation, while the other prioritizes a quieter, more subdued 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
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 Purple RGB and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), it's clear that the two switches utilize different top housing materials. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer and more sound-absorbing properties. This material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more muted auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity and tendency to produce a sharper and crisper sound profile. This inherent characteristic allows for a clearer and more resonant tone, particularly beneficial when illuminated by RGB lighting due to its translucency. Thus, while the Cherry MX's nylon top offers warmth in sound, the Silent T1's polycarbonate top presents a more vivid auditory experience.
On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing material, which is nylon for both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Durock Silent T1. This uniformity in material results in a similar depth and fullness to the sound profile when the switch reaches its bottom-out point. The nylon bottom housing absorbs sound effectively, diminishing high-frequency noise and providing a softer landing when keys are pressed. This characteristic ensures a consistent tactile experience across both switches, resulting in a less jarring auditory response during key presses. Therefore, it can be said that users can expect a more harmonious typing sound experience due to the nylon bottom housing in both switches, even if the top housings induce differing sound profiles.
Overall, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) present an interesting study in contrasts and similarities regarding their housing materials. The differing top materials lead to unique sound characteristics, with nylon providing warmth and polycarbonate offering clarity. However, their shared nylon bottom housing creates a convergence in experience, allowing both switches to deliver a similar deep sound when bottoming out. The combination of these materials ensures that while users might notice variations in auditory feedback when pressing the keys, the overall sound dampening effect remains consistent, providing a satisfying typing experience regardless of choice.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, the differences become quite apparent. The Cherry MX Purple RGB has a speculated actuation force of 45 grams, but its bottom out force remains unknown, making it challenging to fully assess its performance during prolonged use. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) does not have a specified actuation force, but it features a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This suggests that while the Cherry MX switch might provide a lighter experience in terms of actuation, the Silent T1 requires a more substantial push to fully engage, appealing to those who prefer a firmer typing feel. Therefore, if users are looking for a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Cherry MX Purple RGB may be the better choice, whereas the Durock Silent T1 would suit those who enjoy a heavier actuation for a more tactile response.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that when you press down on either key, you will experience the same tactile feedback and travel length. This results in a consistent feel across both switches, making them equally suitable for users seeking a familiar typing experience. Since their travel distances are identical, you can expect similar results in terms of key actuation and overall performance when utilizing either switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 Purple RGB switches present a lively auditory experience typical of mechanical switches, though details on the sound profile have not been fully described. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is known for its muted character, producing softer and quieter sounds, making it preferable for users in noise-sensitive environments. The Silent T1 minimizes the usual clacking noise associated with mechanical keyboards, providing a more discreet typing experience without compromising on the tactile feedback that enthusiasts desire.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a refined tactile response characterized by a short, medium-strength bump. This design strikes a balance between being noticeable without overpowering, creating an engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 features a stepped tactile feel, providing a mild sensation with defined stages that some users may find more familiar and comfortable. This switch is also described as accented, delivering a medium level of tactility that ensures feedback is present but not overwhelming. Additionally, the polished nature of the Silent T1 enhances the overall typing experience, as it reduces friction and promotes smooth key travel, contrasting with the straightforward tactile feedback of the MX Purple RGB.
In conclusion, while both switches provide tactile feedback that appeals to different user preferences, they do so in contrasting ways. The MX Purple RGB showcases a livelier sound and a more straightforward tactile experience, while the Durock Silent T1 combines muted acoustics with a refined, stepped tactile feedback that is ideal for quieter environments. If you're looking for a tactile switch, both options have their merits, with the choice largely depending on your sound sensitivity and preference for tactile feedback dynamics.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switches ultimately hinges on your specific needs and typing environment. If you value a pronounced tactile response with a smooth, polished feel and are looking for a switch that offers a refined typing experience, the Cherry MX Purple RGB could be the right choice for you. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy a medium-strength bump without heavy resistance, allowing for a quick and satisfying keystroke, whether you’re gaming or typing extensively. However, if you find yourself in a noise-sensitive setting or prefer a quieter typing experience, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is an excellent alternative. With its muted sound profile and stepped tactile feedback, this switch offers a comfortable, padded bottom-out feel that softens the impact of your keystrokes, making it a great fit for shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your desired balance between tactile feedback and noise level, ensuring an enjoyable keyboard experience tailored to your preferences.
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