Haimu Orange Sea vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the Haimu Orange Sea 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, preferences often boil down to personal typing style and usage scenarios. The Haimu Orange Sea, a linear switch, is celebrated for its impeccably smooth typing feel and neutral sound signature, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize fluid keystrokes and minimal distractions during typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a unique option for those who appreciate tactile feedback without the accompanying noise; its medium bump and padded bottom-out feel cater to those in noise-sensitive environments while maintaining a rich tactile experience. While both switches offer distinct advantages—smoothness versus tactile response and sound levels—the ultimate decision hinges on individual needs. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Haimu Orange Sea and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) share a remarkable similarity in their choice of housing materials, featuring polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate’s relatively stiff nature, which enhances clarity and resonance during keystrokes. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate benefits RGB lighting effects, creating a more vibrant visual experience when the switches are illuminated. Consequently, users of both the Orange Sea and Silent T1 will likely enjoy a similar auditory experience and aesthetic appeal when utilizing these switches with lighting setups.
On a different note, the bottom housings of both switches are crafted from nylon, a material celebrated for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer characteristics of nylon absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and more muted auditory experience when typing. This shared construction means that both the Orange Sea and Silent T1 will produce a distinct contrast to the sharpness of their upper housing due to the dampening effects of the nylon. When users press down on either switch, they will encounter the plush and muted feedback from the nylon, leading to a satisfying tactile experience.
The interaction between the differing materials in each of the switches further influences the overall typing experience. While both switches utilize the same types of housing materials, the combination of the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom ensures that each provides a unique blend of sound profiles. The top polycarbonate housing enhances the sound when a key is released, while the nylon bottom affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, users will be able to appreciate the clear resonant tones from the polycarbonate and the subdued, rich sounds from the nylon, resulting in a multifaceted typing experience that is consistent across both models.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there is a notable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Orange Sea features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Silent T1 switch has an unspecified actuation force, but its bottom out force is significantly heavier at 67 grams, which gives users a more pronounced tactile experience. This weight preference may lead typists who enjoy a more robust feedback to favor the Silent T1, while those seeking a lighter switch may gravitate towards the Orange Sea. Overall, the Haimu Orange Sea is the lighter option, making it suitable for prolonged use, whereas the Durock Silent T1 appeals to individuals who desire a more substantial feel while typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, it's clear that they differ in their specifications. The Haimu Orange Sea has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option between the two, while the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with more traditional switch designs. This difference means that users of the Orange Sea switch may experience quicker actuation and responsiveness, a quality often favored by gamers seeking fast key presses. Conversely, the Silent T1 offers a more pronounced depth, which some users might find provides a more satisfying tactile experience. Therefore, if you value fast response times, the Haimu Orange Sea would be the preferable choice, while those who appreciate a deeper feel may gravitate towards the Durock Silent T1.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 per 10 switches.
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 Haimu Orange Sea switch offers a neutral sound signature that allows for a pleasant typing experience without intrusive noise, making it versatile for various environments. In comparison, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) is characterized by its muted sound profile, specifically designed to minimize audio feedback. This makes the Silent T1 an excellent choice for noise-sensitive settings, ensuring that keystrokes remain discreet. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by either switch can be influenced by factors like the keyboard’s construction and the choice of keycaps, so while the Orange Sea is smoother and more neutral, the Silent T1 excels in silence.
In terms of feel, the Haimu Orange Sea is recognized for its impeccably smooth action, which results in a fluid typing experience that many users might find appealing. Meanwhile, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) provides a tactile sensation characterized by its stepped bump, offering a moderate tactile feedback that can be enjoyed without being overwhelming. This switch also features an accented feel, delivering a noticeable but not overly aggressive texture. Furthermore, the polished nature of the Silent T1 contributes to a refined typing experience with reduced friction, ensuring that the keystrokes are both smooth and satisfying. Thus, while the Orange Sea prioritizes an ultra-smooth linear feel, the Silent T1 balances tactility and smoothness with its distinct yet mild tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while both the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch cater to different typing preferences, they both present unique qualities that can enhance one's mechanical keyboard experience. The Orange Sea focuses on a smooth and neutral aspect suitable for users who prioritize fluid keystrokes, while the Silent T1 effectively marries tactility with a silenced design for those in quieter environments. Ultimately, both options offer distinct advantages depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, allowing users to tailor their typing experience to their specific needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and the context in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a lighter touch and a smooth, uninterrupted typing experience with minimal sound—a setup ideal for both detailed work and casual gaming—the Orange Sea is likely your best fit. Its 45-gram bottom-out force allows for quick and easy actuation, making it suitable for those who favor speed and fluidity in their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you're in a noise-sensitive environment or simply appreciate tactile feedback without the accompanying sound—like while working in a shared office or studying late at night—the Silent T1 (Shrimp) would be more appropriate. With a heavier 67-gram actuation force and its muted sound profile, this switch provides a satisfying tactile bump without disturbing those around you. Hence, assess your environment and typing style carefully to select the switch that will enhance your overall experience best.
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