TTC Neptune vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Neptune, a linear switch, to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), a tactile switch, each offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. The TTC Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure, providing a smooth and frictionless glide combined with a springy resistance that gives each keystroke a textured pleasure akin to indulging in mochi or tapioca pearls. Its ultralight design allows for effortless typing, while maintaining a muted sound signature for a refined ambiance. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is perfect for those seeking a tactile and quiet typing experience, ideal for noise-sensitive environments. With a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, this switch offers subtle tactile feedback without the clatter of traditional mechanical keyboards. 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
41g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetic characteristics. The Neptune's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting, adding a visual flair to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing and the Silent T1 (Shrimp)'s nylon bottom housing contribute to different sound profiles, with the nylon bottom housing providing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Neptune and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ, they each offer unique qualities that impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Neptune's POM top encases a polycarbonate bottom, providing a blend of deep, muted tones and sharper, crisper sounds. In comparison, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a polycarbonate top with a nylon bottom, resulting in a combination of sharp, high-pitched sounds and deeper, fuller tones. As a result, the typing experience on these switches will vary depending on which housing material is located at the top and bottom of the switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) will come down to personal preference and the desired sound profile. Both switches offer unique advantages, with POM creating a pleasing deep sound in the Neptune and polycarbonate providing a sharp, resonant tone in the Silent T1 (Shrimp). While the materials may differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles, users can expect a high-quality typing experience regardless of the choice, with each switch offering a distinct feel and sound characteristic.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch which has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Neptune will require less force to input a key press and reach the bottom of the keystroke compared to the Silent T1. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Neptune can be beneficial for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, while the heavier bottom out force of the Silent T1 may appeal to individuals looking for a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the Neptune offers a slightly quicker key press with its shorter distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Neptune, while those who prefer a bit more depth in the key press may lean towards the Silent T1. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 Neptune switch is known for its low-pitched, muted, neutral, subdued sound profile which minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is also described as producing a muted sound, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Both switches offer a quieter typing experience, with the Neptune having a more varied sound profile including a thocky quality.
When it comes to feel, the Neptune switch provides a buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished typing experience. It offers smooth and fluid keystrokes with minimal resistance, giving a textured pleasure with each key press. In comparison, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is characterized as feeling stepped, accented, and polished. This tactile switch offers a medium bump, providing a padded bottom-out feel while maintaining a smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Neptune excels in providing a low-pitched sound with a balanced, textured typing experience, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is perfect for those who seek a tactile and quiet typing experience with a medium bump. Both switches offer a polished finish for smooth key travel, although the Neptune offers a more varied sound profile compared to the Silent T1 (Shrimp). Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a light bottom-out force and a smooth, almost frictionless typing experience, the TTC Neptune linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. The Neptune's unique "matte" feel and muted sound signature make it perfect for those who prioritize swift and effortless typing with minimal noise disruption. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a tactile switch that offers both tactile feedback and silenced operation, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is the way to go. Its medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback make it ideal for noise-sensitive environments where you want a balance of tactile feel and quiet operation. Ultimately, your decision between these two switches should come down to your preference for typing experience and sound profile.
Mentioned in this article
