Gateron North Pole V2 vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) offer unique features and benefits. The North Pole V2 is a linear switch that is best known for its gummy typing feel and deep, muted sound profile. This switch provides a satisfying tactile experience with its creamy and bouncy qualities. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch that is perfect for those who desire both a tactile feel and silence. With its medium bump and padded bottom-out, this switch offers a comfortable typing experience while minimizing noise. It is suitable for noise-sensitive environments. Overall, both switches have their respective advantages, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best choice for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Ink Housing Material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches differ in terms of their bottom housings. The North Pole V2 features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate material of the North Pole V2 contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is known for its stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer material that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. When typing on the North Pole V2, the bottom housing's impact is more pronounced during the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key.
Although the bottom housings of the North Pole V2 and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) differ, their top housings are both made of polycarbonate. Polycarbonate, being a relatively stiffer plastic, creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is especially useful when using RGB lighting due to its translucency. Therefore, when it comes to the sound profile and aesthetics, both switches provide similar results. However, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) may offer a slightly deeper sound due to the impact of its nylon bottom housing.
In conclusion, the Gateron North Pole V2 and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches vary in terms of their bottom housings. The North Pole V2 utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a clearer and resonant sound, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a nylon bottom housing, producing a fuller and rounder sound. However, both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, making them suitable for RGB lighting. It is important to note that the bottom housings predominantly influence the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housings affect the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are a few notable differences and similarities. The North Pole V2 has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force within the medium-heavy range, with the North Pole V2 at 65 grams and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) at 67 grams.
In terms of weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the North Pole V2 as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Silent T1 (Shrimp) due to its heavier bottom out force, providing a stronger push feel and potentially enhancing the overall typing experience.
While the actuation forces of both switches differ, it is important to note that a higher actuation force does not necessarily translate to a heavier bottom out force. Therefore, individuals looking for a similar typing experience in terms of force required may still achieve comparable results with these two switches.
Overall, in terms of actuation force, the North Pole V2 is known to be lighter with its 50-gram actuation force, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have medium-heavy bottom out forces, with the North Pole V2 at 65 grams and the Silent T1 (Shrimp) at 67 grams.
Travel distance
The Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a deep and muted sound profile, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, on the other hand, produces a softer and quieter sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches offer a dampened or muted sound when pressed, making them suitable for noise-sensitive environments. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch is best described as gummy, providing a unique typing experience that feels like bottoming out on a trampoline or a gummy bear. It offers a chewy and satisfying typing feel. The Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a stepped feel, featuring two stages of tactility where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It provides a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, creating a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The North Pole V2 provides a deep and muted sound with a gummy typing feel, while the Silent T1 offers a softer and quieter sound along with a stepped tactile feel. Both switches have a polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel. Depending on personal preferences and the desired typing experience, one can choose between the more muted and chewy feel of the North Pole V2 or the quieter and stepped feel of the Silent T1. It is important to note that individual factors such as keyboard layout, keycap material, and typing technique may also influence the overall experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. The North Pole V2 is best suited for those who prefer a gummy and creamy typing experience, with a satisfying chewy feel and a deep, muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is perfect for individuals looking for a tactile and silenced switch, providing a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. Additionally, the North Pole V2 produces a subdued sound, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) delivers a muted sound for a quieter typing experience. In terms of feel, the North Pole V2 offers a gummy and polished sensation, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a stepped, accented, and polished feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for linear or tactile switches and the specific qualities you prioritize in your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
