Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options to consider are the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The NovelKeys Blueberry is a tactile switch that stands out for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a more noticeable tactile feel. While it produces a slightly deeper-than-average sound frequency, it remains within a moderately resonant range without being overly "thocky." On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) offers a unique combination of both a tactile switch and silenced properties, making it an ideal choice for environments where noise sensitivity is a concern. With a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, this switch offers a more subdued audio feedback. In comparison, the Blueberry switch has a sharper tactile bump, while the Silent T1 offers a more muted and polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches differ significantly. The Blueberry features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. This makes the switch produce a pleasing and unique sound when typing. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The polycarbonate material, being stiffer, contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing is advantageous for those using RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the NovelKeys Blueberry also employs a POM bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and relatively muted sound profile like its top housing. This creates a consistent sound experience throughout the typing process. Conversely, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings.
When both top and bottom housings are different for a switch, the characteristics associated with each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. Hence, when pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Meanwhile, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Although the Blueberry and Silent T1 differ in their housing materials, the split configuration allows both switches to offer a unique typing experience, tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, one noticeable difference is their weight. The NovelKeys Blueberry has a relatively heavier actuation force of 55 grams, requiring a firm push to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly. However, the bottom out force of the NovelKeys Blueberry is 80 grams, indicating a substantial typing experience, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 67 grams, falling within the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch. Its lower bottom out force could allow for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for individuals using their keyboard extensively in professional settings or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, if a stronger push is desired for a more substantial typing feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces would be the preferable choice.
For individuals seeking similar results, both switches provide a tactile feedback, although the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch lacks specific information about its actuation force. In such cases, it is reasonable to expect a comparable tactile experience between the two switches, but with potential variations in the required force for triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on personal preferences for typing intensity.
Travel distance
Both the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. 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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is best known for its sharp tactile bump, giving it a distinct typing feel. When typing on these switches, you can expect a lower-than-average sound frequency that is a little deeper but not overly "thocky." The sound profile of the Blueberry switch is described as low-pitched and resonant, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is perfect for those who prefer a tactile and silenced switch, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. It offers a medium bump and a padded bottom-out feel, with muted audio feedback. The Silent T1 produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches.
In terms of feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch is often described as snappy, with a responsive and lively typing experience. It has a buttery and textured sensation, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with noticeable friction. The switch is also invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a reactive feel. It can be considered stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. On the other hand, the Silent T1 switch has a stepped and accented feel. It features two stages of tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The amount of tactility provided is prominent but not overwhelming, resulting in a medium tactile experience. The Silent T1 switch can also be described as polished, offering a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Blueberry switch has a sharp tactile bump, lower-than-average sound frequency, and a snappy, buttery, and textured feel. On the other hand, the Silent T1 switch provides a medium bump, muted sound, and a stepped, accented, and polished feel. Both switches offer unique typing experiences suitable for different preferences. If you are looking for a sharp typing feel with a lower-pitched sound, the Blueberry switch would be a great choice. Meanwhile, if you prefer a mix of tactile feedback and silence, the Silent T1 switch would be ideal. While the exact results may vary based on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, you can expect similar qualities described here when using these switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are someone who loves a sharp and tactile typing feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch is the perfect choice for you. With its heavy bottom out force of 80 grams, sharp tactile bump, and lower-than-average sound frequency, it provides a satisfying and crisp typing experience. The Blueberry switch offers a clean and sharp resonant sound profile, making each keystroke immersive.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile and silenced switch that is ideal for noise-sensitive environments, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel. The Silent T1 provides a muted sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a sharp and responsive typing experience with a resonant sound, go for the NovelKeys Blueberry. However, if you value a tactile and silenced switch that offers a muted sound, the Durock Silent T1 is the better option. Consider the sound, feel, and environment you will be using the keyboard in to make the best choice for you.
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