Cherry Nixie vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer distinct experiences for users to consider. The Cherry Nixie is a linear switch best known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, blending tradition with modern innovation. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch ideal for noise-sensitive environments, offering a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel. While the Nixie provides a low-pitched thocky typing experience, the Silent T1 offers muted and subdued audio feedback. If you prefer a more traditional feel with a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie may be the right choice for you. However, if you prioritize a tactile switch with a silenced operation, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be the better option. 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
63.5g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry Nixie and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with a duller and rounder sound being produced during key presses. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience across both switches.
However, the main point of differentiation between the Cherry Nixie and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) lies in their top housing materials. The Nixie features a nylon top housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting due to its translucency. This difference in top housing material gives each switch its own unique sound signature and aesthetic appeal.
Overall, while the bottom housing material remains consistent between the Cherry Nixie and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp), the top housing material serves as the key differentiating factor between the two switches. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Nixie provides a softer sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences of the user.
Weight
The Cherry Nixie linear switch is heavier than the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Nixie requires an actuation force of 63.5 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, with the actuation force being unknown. Lighter switches like the Silent T1 (Shrimp) may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those seeking a stronger push feel might opt for the heavier Nixie switch for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches have their own unique strengths in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The travel distance of these switches is equal, providing a consistent typing experience for users regardless of which switch they choose to use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 Nixie linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched auditory experience, creating a deep and rich sound profile that resonates with each key press. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a muted sound, perfect for those who prioritize a quieter typing environment. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can enjoy a satisfying typing experience without disturbing others.
In terms of feel, the Cherry Nixie switch boasts a textured typing experience, offering users noticeable friction during key presses. This can enhance the tactile feedback and provide a unique typing sensation that some individuals may prefer. In contrast, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch features a stepped and accented feel, providing a medium tactile bump that is not overwhelming yet still prominent. Additionally, with a polished finish, these switches offer smooth key travel and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer tactile feedback with different textures and levels of tactility, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Overall, both the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. While the Nixie provides a thocky sound and textured feel, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a muted sound with a stepped and accented tactile sensation. Users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, depending on their preference for sound, feel, and overall typing style. Ultimately, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a customized typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Cherry Nixie linear switch or the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you value a heavier switch with a textured typing experience and a louder, low-pitched sound, the Cherry Nixie may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and a muted sound, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) could be the ideal option. Additionally, if you are in a noise-sensitive environment and want a tactile switch that is both tactile and silenced, the Silent T1 is a great choice. Consider your typing style, environment, and sound preferences when making your decision, as both switches offer unique advantages that cater to different typing experiences. Ultimately, the best switch for you is the one that aligns most closely with your individual preferences and needs.
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